King of Norway Harald V died on 28 August 2026 at 6:35 in the morning at Oslo University Hospital. He was 89 years old.
The Royal Court announced the death of the monarch, who had occupied the throne since 1991. Europe has lost its oldest serving head of state.
Harald V was hospitalized on 17 August due to complications from hemolytic anemia. Later, he developed a bacterial blood infection, and his condition deteriorated sharply.
Family members, including Queen Sonja and Crown Prince Haakon, spent the last hours at his bedside. Many Norwegians gathered at the Royal Palace, leaving flowers.
Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre canceled his trip and expressed condolences. He noted that the king helped the country see the best in itself and in each other.
According to the law of succession, the throne immediately passes to Harald's son, 53-year-old Crown Prince Haakon. He becomes King Haakon VIII.
Haakon's daughter, Princess Ingrid Alexandra, is now first in the line of succession. She is the first female heir to the Norwegian throne in more than 600 years.
Harald V survived difficult years: pacemaker implantation, surgeries, and chronic health problems. He always refused to abdicate the throne.
What now awaits the Norwegian monarchy under the new reign?
The government will soon hold a meeting and meet with the new king at the palace. The country is in mourning for the beloved monarch.
