Norwegians gathered outside the Royal Palace in Oslo on Friday to pay tribute to King Harald V, who died at the age of 89. Mourners described the late monarch as a beloved grandfather figure who made all citizens feel at home, laying floral tributes in his memory after the news of his death was announced.
National mourning and tributes from the Prime Minister
Norway's prime minister, Jonas Gahr Støre, also paid tribute to King Harald, saying the 'entire nation is in mourning'. His words echoed the sentiments of the crowds, who expressed a deep personal connection to the king, reflecting his long reign and his role in unifying the country.
Succession: Haakon VIII and Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra
Following the death of King Harald, his 53-year-old son will become Norway's new king, taking the throne as Haakon VIII. Haakon's 22-year-old daughter, Ingrid Alexandra, becomes crown princess, marking a new chapter in the Norwegian monarchy as the country adjusts to life after its long-serving sovereign.
