Haakon is now Crown Prince and monarch-in-waiting after King Harald V’s death; he ascends as Norway’s ceremonial head of state. He has long served as heir apparent and modernizes royal duties while balancing public trust.
King Harald V of Norway has died at Oslo University Hospital at 06:35 local time on Friday, Aug. 28. His 53-year-old son, Crown Prince Haakon, has acceded as King Haakon VIII and will take the oath before parliament on Tuesday. Norway has declared a period of national mourning and flags are flying at half-mast.
Oslo district court has convicted Marius Borg Høiby, 29, on two counts of rape and multiple other offences and has sentenced him to four years in prison. He has been acquitted on two other rape charges, has been in custody since February and will have the right to appeal. The case has intensified scrutiny of Crown Princess Mette‑Marit and reduced public trust in Norway's monarchy.
Europe’s longest-serving monarch, King Harald V, has died at 89. He is succeeded by his son, who will take the name King Haakon VIII. Mourners are paying respects, and a national address is expected as Norway enters a transition to a new reign.
King Harald V has died aged 89. Crown Prince Haakon has become King Haakon VIII, with Ingrid Alexandra as Crown Princess. Norway declares mourning; the royal family and state institutions prepare for the transition and a funeral date is pending.