Norway mourns King Harald V as Crown Prince Haakon becomes King Haakon VIII
Norway's King Harald V has died at age 89 in Oslo after reigning for more than three decades, with his son now taking the throne as King Haakon VIII. Hundreds gathered outside the Royal Palace to pay their respects.
Norway is mourning the death of King Harald V, who died aged 89 early Friday morning at Oslo University Hospital's Rikshospitalet, the Royal Palace has announced.
Hundreds of people gathered outside the palace to lay flowers and wreaths, while church bells rang across the country at noon in tribute. The Norwegian Royal Standard was lowered to half-mast as the nation honoured a king who had reigned for more than 30 years.
Harald ascended to the throne in January 1991 after the death of his father, King Olav V. His reign coincided with a period of strong economic growth in Norway, driven largely by the country's oil and gas industry. He was known for a modern, modest style of monarchy and remained a widely respected figure as head of state throughout his life.
A new king
Crown Prince Haakon, 53, has now succeeded his father, taking the throne as King Haakon VIII. He has chosen the motto "All for Norway" (Alt for Norge) — the same phrase used by his great-grandfather, King Haakon VII.
Norway's monarchy holds a largely ceremonial role, with actual political authority resting in the hands of the elected parliament. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre signed the palace's book of condolences, describing the country's feelings toward Harald's long service as one of deep gratitude.
