- King Harald V has died at 89 years old.
- Norwegians are lining up at churches for emotional memorials to honor the late king.
- Dean Pål Kristian Balstad opened the funeral service in Oslo Cathedral, saying, 'This Sunday is different. His Majesty King Harald is dead. A family has lost their spouse, father, grandfather, father-in-law,' as reported by NRK.
- The royal family attended a service at Asker Church, southwest of Oslo.
- The new king adopted the motto 'All for Norway,' which dates back to his great-grandfather. His wife became Queen Mette-Marit, while his oldest child, Ingrid Alexandra, became crown princess and heir to the throne.
Norwegians are in mourning following the death of King Harald V, who passed away at 89. Memorial services were held across the country, with Dean Pål Kristian Balstad leading the service in Oslo Cathedral.123
“This Sunday is different. His Majesty King Harald is dead. A family has lost their spouse, father, grandfather, father-in-law,” Balstad stated, capturing the somber mood of the nation.
The royal family attended a separate service at Asker Church, southwest of Oslo, as tens of thousands of Norwegians expressed their grief by laying flowers and lighting candles at the royal palace.4
A date for the funeral has yet to be announced, but the country is in a state of mourning, prompting some to postpone celebrations such as weddings and baptisms.
In his first speech as the new king, Haakon expressed his sorrow, saying, “I’m going to miss him. I’ll miss his laughter. His good-natured way of dealing with people and situations.” He vowed to give everything for Norway’s future, adopting the motto “All for Norway,” a tribute to his great-grandfather.56
Norway’s monarchy, with roots tracing back to the ninth century, remains a symbol of national identity, even as power lies with an elected parliament.
The royal family continues to play a significant role in promoting Norway globally.
“The new king adopted the motto 'All for Norway,' dating back to his great-grandfather, while his wife became Queen Mette-Marit and his oldest child, Ingrid Alexandra, became crown princess and heir to the throne.”
