Norway’s King Harald D!es At 89, Crown Prince Haakon Takes Over

Norway is mourning the death of King Harald V, who passed away at the age of 89 after a prolonged period of ill health.

According to Ireporter Online, the Norwegian Royal Court announced that the monarch died peacefully at Oslo University Hospital in Oslo at 6:35 a.m. on Friday, August 28, 2026. Harald had been receiving medical treatment after suffering a serious bacterial infection in his bloodstream.

King Harald, who became monarch in 1991 following the death of his father, King Olav V, had reigned for more than three decades. He was widely regarded as a unifying figure in Norway and remained highly respected for his commitment to public service, tolerance and inclusiveness.

Following the announcement of his death, the Norwegian Royal Palace lowered the national flag to half-mast as members of the public gathered to pay their respects and mourn the longtime monarch.

Harald had experienced several health challenges in recent years, including hospitalisation for infections and other medical complications. His condition deteriorated in the days leading up to his death, with the Royal Court previously describing his health as very serious.

His death has triggered a major transition for the Norwegian monarchy, with his only son, Crown Prince Haakon, ascending the throne. Haakon became monarch immediately following his father’s death and is expected to take the regnal name King Haakon VIII.

Haakon, 53, had served as regent while his father was undergoing treatment and had increasingly taken on official responsibilities as Harald’s health declined.

The late king’s passing marks the end of a 35-year chapter in Norway’s modern monarchy. Harald was known for maintaining a relatively modest royal style and for speaking openly about the importance of equality, compassion and inclusion.

Tributes are expected to continue across Norway and beyond as the country begins a period of mourning for a monarch who remained a prominent symbol of national unity throughout his reign.