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Friday, 23 October 2026

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Haakon VIII becomes King of Norway following the death of Harald V

Crown Prince Haakon is now the new king of Norway, taking the name Haakon VIII and his father's motto, 'All for Norway.'

Archive photo: Haakon VIII becomes King of Norway following the death of Harald V
Archive photoPhoto: Frankie Fouagnthin · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.0

Crown Prince Haakon has been officially designated as the new king of Norway following the death of his father, Harald V. Haakon, who will now be known as Haakon VIII, has adopted the motto 'All for Norway,' previously used by his father. The news was confirmed by the royal palace through an Instagram post.

Haakon was born on July 20, 1973, and has a history marked by public commitment, which includes moments of closeness with the citizens. After the attack on Utøya in 2011, where 77 people, mostly teenagers, lost their lives, he was seen visiting the families of the victims, demonstrating a human approach by listening to their stories, according to testimonies from those present.

The death of Harald V marks the beginning of a new era for the Norwegian monarchy. Many are looking to the new king, who comes with the people's support, although he also faces challenges related to his wife, Mette-Marit’s reputation. Some observers have noted that their marriage has been under some controversy.

Archive photo: Haakon VIII becomes King of Norway following the death of Harald V
Archive photoPhoto: DrabikPany · Flickr · BY

Despite the challenges, the new monarch is seen as a figure representing the values of equality and closeness, characteristics of the Norwegian monarchy system. Haakon follows the tradition of Norwegian princes by having attended a state primary school and later a private secondary school, as well as serving in the navy and studying at prestigious universities like the University of California, Berkeley.

Details regarding the coronation ceremony and events accompanying this transition have not yet been specified. However, the public expresses anticipation for the role Haakon VIII will play in Norway’s future.

The evolution of the king's figure, now under Haakon VIII, is an element of interest for many Norwegians, who are considering how his leadership style and connection with the people will influence the country during his reign.