Norway is mourning the loss of King Harald, who passed away early on the morning of August 28, 2026, at Oslo University Hospital. Upon his death, the crown passed directly to his son: Crown Prince Haakon became King Haakon.

That same morning, the new monarch appeared before the public for the first time at an extraordinary Council of State meeting. The moment was marked by sadness, but it also signaled the beginning of a new era for the royal family. As the country bids farewell to its late king, the transfer of power is proceeding in accordance with Norway’s constitutional rules.

King Haakon VIII Chooses the Motto “Everything for Norway”

Shortly after the meeting, the Norwegian Royal Family shared the first official portrait of the new monarch on Instagram. The caption read: “His Majesty King Haakon VIII—Everything for Norway.” This confirmed both his royal name and his motto.

According to Gala, Haakon is continuing a family tradition, as both his father and grandfather also used the same motto. The new king is therefore beginning his reign within a historical tradition deeply rooted in the Norwegian royal family.

Ingrid Alexandra Takes on More Responsibilities as Crown Princess

During his first public appearance as king, Haakon was not the sole focus of attention. At his side was his daughter, Ingrid Alexandra, who now officially holds the title of Crown Princess. According to VG, the first photos showed the two of them welcoming members of the government at the Royal Palace in Oslo.

Haakon wore a formal uniform and waved to the waiting crowd, while Ingrid Alexandra followed him with a blue folder under her arm. His wife, Mette-Marit, and his son, Prince Sverre Magnus, were not present at the event.

The Oath-Taking Ceremony Formally Marks the Transfer of Power

After a period of national mourning was announced ahead of King Harald’s funeral, the royal family gathered at the palace. There, Haakon attended the Council of State meeting and took his oath of office. During the meeting, he formally announced his father’s death, confirmed his title, and proclaimed his royal motto.

Although the Norwegian crown passes directly to the successor at the moment of the monarch’s death, the new reign is formally confirmed through a Council of State meeting. At least half of the government’s members must be present for the meeting to proceed.

King Harald Will Be Laid to Rest at Akershus

Alongside the succession, attention is also turning to preparations for Harald V’s funeral. The late monarch is expected to be laid to rest in the royal mausoleum at Akershus Fortress in Oslo. The mausoleum is already the final resting place of Haakon VII and Queen Maud, as well as Olav V and Princess Märtha.

Work has reportedly been underway since 2024 on a shared sarcophagus for Harald and Queen Sonja, designed by the architectural firm Snøhetta, according to Bunte.

As Norway mourns its late king, Haakon now faces the greatest challenge of his life: beginning a new reign while carrying forward his father’s legacy.