Norway is watching closely after the Royal House said King Harald V’s condition is “very serious,” according to hola.com. The 89-year-old monarch has been in Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, since August 17. He has reigned since 1991 and remains a central figure in national life. After the latest palace statement on August 27, Queen Sonja and Crown Prince Haakon canceled official duties. Haakon is currently serving as regent during his father’s illness, as concern grows around the King’s condition.
Queen Sonja and Crown Prince Haakon Cancel Duties
The royal family gathered at the hospital as the situation became more grave. Queen Sonja, Crown Prince Haakon, Crown Princess Mette-Marit, Princess Ingrid Alexandra, Prince Sverre Magnus, Princess Märtha Louise and Princess Astrid were all reported to have traveled to Rikshospitalet. Leah Isadora Behn also arrived, while Marius Borg Høiby joined the family despite holding no formal royal role. Several relatives were later seen leaving the hospital with somber expressions. Princess Astrid, the King’s 94-year-old sister, reportedly spent around five hours there.
Oslo Residents Leave Flowers for King Harald
Outside the Royal Palace in Oslo, members of the public began leaving flowers in support of the monarch and his family. Bouquets were also placed in Bergen as Norwegians marked the moment with quiet gestures. Many in the country see Harald as a steady national figure after decades on the throne. "It is a way to show respect for our dear King, our head of state," Oslo resident Erik Birkemo told Norwegian media. "I admire him, and I believe it is important to give something back by leaving flowers."
Swedish Royals and Leaders Send Support
Support has also come from Sweden, where the royal families share close personal ties. "Our royal family is in close contact with the Norwegian royal family and is offering its full support," the Swedish Royal Court said according to hola.com. Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden is one of King Harald’s godchildren, underlining the family bond. In Norway, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre canceled a strategy meeting and a working dinner in Germany after the palace update. Masud Gharahkhani, president of the Storting, also cut short a visit to Iceland.
Hospital Stay Reaches Ten Days Amid Growing Concern
The King was admitted on August 17 while receiving treatment for anemia. On August 23, the palace said his condition had worsened over the weekend and that he was being treated with antibiotics for a bacterial infection in his bloodstream. A day later, officials said there had been no significant change and that he was stable. That changed with Thursday’s brief statement. King Harald has faced several health issues in recent years, including mobility problems, and Norway is now waiting for the next medical update.
