King Haakon VIII of Norway has delivered his first national address following the death of his father, King Harald V, thanking the public for their support. The broadcast was delivered to the nation following the monarch's passing, Norwegian television channel NRK reported.
King Harald V died on August 28, 2026, in his 90th year. He served as the head of state of Norway, a constitutional monarchy in Northern Europe where the sovereign plays a largely ceremonial role under the national constitution.
In his broadcast message, the new king said it served as a great comfort and support to the royal family that so many people were grieving alongside them during this painful period. He described it as deeply moving to see the square outside the Royal Palace in Oslo filling with gathering crowds, floral tributes, written wishes, and candles left by citizens.
Tributes and royal anniversary
King Haakon VIII also expressed his gratitude to his late father for his dedicated service to the nation. In the same address, he congratulated his mother, Queen Sonja, on what marked her 58th wedding anniversary with the late king.
The death of King Harald V followed a period of declining health and hospitalization. The monarch was initially admitted to hospital after being diagnosed with hemolytic anemia, a blood condition where red blood cells are destroyed faster than the body can replace them.
His health deteriorated further several days later when medical staff detected a bacterial blood infection. During his father's hospitalization and illness, Haakon performed all official duties as regent, stepping in to manage royal functions on behalf of the crown.
Parliamentary oath of office
King Haakon VIII is scheduled to formally take his oath of office before the Norwegian parliament on September 1. The formal ceremony before lawmakers in the nation's capital will mark his official assumption of duties as king.
