Norway's King Harald V Dies at 89, Europe's Oldest Monarch Passes Away
SCMP · 2 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago1 MIN
Summary
Norway's King Harald V died Friday at age 89 at Oslo University Hospital, the royal palace announced in a statement. The monarch, Europe's oldest, passed away peacefully at 6:35am after being hospitalized since August 17 for a blood infection. His son Crown Prince Haakon automatically ascends to the throne as King Haakon VIII.
Key Points
- King Harald V passed away at Oslo University Hospital on Friday, August 28 at 6:35am
- He was 89 years old and Europe's oldest reigning monarch at the time of his death
- The king was admitted to hospital on August 17 and treated for a bacterial blood infection
- Harald famously refused to abdicate despite advancing age, unlike other European monarchs who stepped down in recent years
- His son Crown Prince Haakon automatically becomes King Haakon VIII
- The royal palace issued a statement expressing deep sadness over the passing
Why It Matters
Harald's reign marked a significant era of modernization for the Norwegian monarchy, balancing tradition with contemporary values. His death and the automatic succession of King Haakon VIII ensure continuity for Norway's constitutional monarchy during a period of transition in European royal families .
Harald's reign marked a significant era of modernization for the Norwegian monarchy, balancing tradition with contemporary values. His death and the automatic succession of King Haakon VIII ensure continuity for Norway's constitutional monarchy during a period of transition in European royal families .