King Harald of Norway Passes Away; Crown Prince Haakon Declared New King

King Harald of Norway passed away at the age of 89 on Friday morning at 6:35 am at Oslo University Hospital, the palace confirmed. Following the king’s death, 53-year-old Crown Prince Haakon has automatically been declared the new King of Norway. King Harald had been undergoing treatment for hemolytic anemia since August 17 and had reduced his official engagements in recent years due to health issues.

After King Harald’s passing, the national flag at the palace has been lowered to half-mast. Members of the public have paid their respects by laying flowers at the palace. He is remembered as a humble, warm, and inclusive monarch. King Harald ascended the throne in 1991. In recent years, due to various health complications, he had a pacemaker installed and participated less frequently in official events.

As the king’s health worsened, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre canceled a scheduled work visit to Germany. The royal family had been in the news over the past year for health concerns and various controversies. Queen Sonja was also hospitalized due to heart-related issues. Controversy arose after information was revealed regarding Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s association with Jeffrey Epstein.

King Harald was deeply beloved by the Norwegian people for his simple lifestyle and inclusive approach. His son, Marius Borg Høiby, has been sentenced to four years in prison on 32 counts related to sexual assault, and he has filed an appeal against the verdict.