Norway’s King Harald V dies at 89

King Harald V of Norway died on Friday, August 28, 2026, at the age of 89 after a prolonged period of health problems, the Norwegian Royal House announced, according to Reuters, CE Report quotes MOLDPRES.

Harald V ascended the throne in 1991 following the death of his father, King Olav V, and became Europe’s longest-serving reigning monarch.

The monarch was known for his reformist views and efforts to modernize the Norwegian monarchy. During his reign, Harald V sought to adapt the Royal House to changes in Norwegian society.

In recent weeks, the king’s health had deteriorated. Harald V had been hospitalized in Oslo since August 17 and was being treated for a blood disorder. On August 27, the Royal House announced that his condition was “extremely serious,” while Queen Sonja and Crown Prince Haakon canceled their public engagements to be by his side.

Crown Prince Haakon, who had exercised his father’s duties as regent while he was hospitalized, is expected to assume the role of head of state in accordance with constitutional procedures.

Harald V reigned for more than 35 years, and his death marks the end of a long era in the history of the Norwegian monarchy.

Photo: royalcourt.no