King Harald V of Norway has died
He reigned for more than 35 years
King Harald V of Norway died on 28 August at the age of 89. The monarch passed away at 6:35 a.m. in a hospital in Oslo, the Norwegian Royal House announced.
Harald V ascended the Norwegian throne in 1991 following the death of his father, King Olav V.
He was regarded as a modern monarch. While preserving the traditions of the royal family, he also championed openness and equality. He became particularly well known for his views on diversity and every person’s right to be themselves.
In recent years, Ukraine also held a special place in his heart. Harald V supported Ukrainians who found refuge in Norway following the start of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine.
Harald also once broke with one of the royal family’s most important traditions. He refused to marry a member of another royal household because he had fallen in love with Sonja Haraldsen, who was not of aristocratic descent. As a result, the future couple had to wait nine years before receiving permission to marry. Harald and Sonja wed in 1968 and spent nearly 58 years together.
The king devoted a significant part of his life to sport. Sailing was his greatest passion. Harald represented Norway at the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo, and in 1987 he and his crew became world champions. He continued competing in regattas well into later life.
The king’s health had deteriorated noticeably in recent years. He had a pacemaker fitted in 2024 and was hospitalised several times in 2026.
Harald was admitted to hospital in Oslo on 17 August, where he received treatment for haemolytic anaemia. He later developed a bacterial infection in his bloodstream. On 27 August, the Royal House announced that his condition had deteriorated sharply.
Harald remained King of Norway until his death. Despite his health problems, he rejected the idea of abdicating. Following his death, the throne automatically passes to his son, Crown Prince Haakon.
Harald V’s reign of more than 35 years has now come to an end. For Norway, his death marks the end of an era.
Photo: Instagram @detnorskekongehus
