Norway enters a new chapter in its monarchy as King Haakon VIII takes charge following the death of his father, King Harald. The country marks the transition with a national period of mourning, and many people gather at the Royal Palace in Oslo to pay respects. Several outlets describe large crowds and extensive flowers left at the palace, with flags flown at half-mast.
The reports also describe the circumstances of Harald’s death and Haakon’s move into the role of king. Harald is described as a unifying figure who reigned for 35 years, and his death is reported as occurring on Friday morning at 6.35am, when he is said to be aged 89. While outlets broadly agree on the mourning and public attendance at the palace, some emphasize different aspects: NDTV highlights the atmosphere at the palace, while others stress Haakon’s oath of allegiance in parliament.
South China Morning Post and Vanguard both characterize the event as the beginning of a new era under Haakon VIII, noting public remembrance of Harald and Haakon’s qualities such as inclusiveness and tolerance.
