Norwegians, politicians, and royals are grieving the death of King Harald V, as a period of national mourning begins and his son, King Haakon VIII, assumes the throne. King Harald V died peacefully in hospital at 06:35 local time on Friday, aged 89, after receiving treatment for a rare blood condition since last week.
Following the announcement of Harald's death, crowds gathered at the royal palace in Oslo, laying flowers and flags. Hours later, the new King Haakon VIII met government ministers for an extraordinary council of state meeting, where the 53-year-old announced he was taking on the royal family's motto "All for Norway."
Norway's Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre laid flowers outside the palace and signed a book of condolences, stating that the country was "united in grief and gratitude." European royals, including King Charles III, political leaders, and citizens, paid tribute to King Harald V's service and the stability he brought to Norway. The Norwegian Armed Forces honoured Harald with a funeral salute of 21 shots from Akershus Fortress in central Oslo.
A period of national mourning has been declared until the day of his funeral, which has not yet been announced. During this time, flags will be flown at half-mast, and non-work-related social events will be cancelled or postponed. King Haakon VIII is due to take an oath before the Norwegian parliament on Tuesday and will later participate in a consecration service.