From Harald’s Illness to Haakon’s Accession

Chronology

1. 24-08-2026
   King Harald’s Health Deteriorates Amid Royal Family Strains

   3 articles

   Norway’s 89-year-old King Harald V remains hospitalized at Oslo University Hospital after developing a bloodstream bacterial infection alongside haemolytic anaemia and fluid retention linked to cortisone treatment. Although his health deteriorated, palace officials say he has res…
2. 28-08-2026
   Norway Mourns Harald V as Haakon VIII Takes Throne

   15 articles

   Norway has entered national mourning following the death of King Harald V at 89 on August 28, 2026, after a prolonged period of health problems that included haemolytic anaemia, a bacterial bloodstream infection and earlier pacemaker treatment. Harald’s 35-year reign was marked b…
3. 29-08-2026
   Norway Mourns Harald as Haakon Begins Reign

   6 articles

   Norway has entered a national mourning period after the death of King Harald V at age 89, following treatment for a rare blood condition. Remembered as a modest, inclusive and unifying “king of the people,” Harald’s death prompted crowds to gather at Oslo’s Royal Palace with flow…
4. 01-09-2026
   Haakon VIII Begins Norway’s Ceremonial Reign

   3 articles

   King Haakon VIII formally began his reign by swearing allegiance to Norway’s constitution and laws before parliament in Oslo, following the death of his father, King Harald V, at age 89 after a 35-year reign. The oath marked a symbolic constitutional transition rather than a tran…