Norway mourns King Harald as crowds gather at royal palace

Norwegians gathered in Oslo on Saturday, August 29, 2026, to pay their final respects to King Harald V, who passed away the previous day at the age of 89. The late monarch, known for his progressive reforms and inclusive leadership, lay in state at the Royal Palace, where crowds of well-wishers gathered to honor his legacy. Mourners reflected on his commitment to tolerance and social progress, with many recalling his influential 2016 speech affirming diversity and equality.

King Harald, Europe’s oldest reigning monarch, died at Oslo University Hospital on August 28 after more than three decades on the throne. Thousands lined the rainy streets to witness the funeral cortege transporting his coffin from the hospital to the Royal Palace. His body will remain in the palace chapel, where the public can pay their respects before a state funeral is held. The exact date of the funeral has not yet been announced.

Flags across Norway flew at half-mast as a national tribute, and portraits of the late king in his royal gala uniform appeared in public spaces, from transit stations to local businesses. Among the mourners was Mari Eidsvaag, 32, who wore a T-shirt featuring a quote from King Harald’s 2016 speech: “Norwegians are girls who love girls, boys who love boys and girls and boys who love each other.” She emphasized the significance of his words in promoting inclusivity, particularly in today’s social climate.

The transition of power occurred immediately upon King Harald’s death. His eldest son, who was 53 at the time, ascended the throne as King Haakon VIII. Norway’s new monarch is expected to deliver a national address and take a constitutional oath before Parliament on Tuesday, September 1, pledging to uphold Norwegian law and governance. The succession marks the beginning of a new era under the House of Glücksburg, the royal dynasty that has governed Norway since 1905.

King Harald’s reign was defined by modernization and openness. He succeeded his father, King Olav V, in 1991 and became a symbol of stability and progress during his 33-year rule. His death follows a period of national mourning and reflection on his contributions to Norwegian society.

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