The Royal Palace announced that the monarch died peacefully at Oslo University Hospital at 6:35 a.m. on Friday, August 28.
Following his death, the Norwegian flag at the Royal Palace in Oslo was lowered to half-mast as the country began a period of mourning.
Harald had been receiving treatment at the hospital since August 17 after developing haemolytic anaemia, a condition in which red blood cells are destroyed faster than the body can replace them.
His condition reportedly became critical on Thursday, prompting members of the royal family to gather at his bedside.
Queen Sonja, Crown Prince Haakon, his wife Mette-Marit and their children were among those who spent time with the king during his final hours.
With Harald’s death, Crown Prince Haakon automatically becomes Norway’s new monarch at the age of 53.
Harald became king in 1991 and was Europe’s longest-serving reigning monarch at the time of his death.
Although he experienced several health setbacks in recent years, including the need for a pacemaker and periods of hospitalisation, Harald continued carrying out his royal responsibilities. He had also repeatedly rejected the idea of abdication, saying his commitment to the Norwegian throne was for life.
News of his death drew mourners to the Royal Palace in Oslo, where members of the public gathered to lay flowers and pay their respects.
Many Norwegians remembered Harald as a calm and approachable monarch who helped unite the country.
His death comes after a difficult period for the Norwegian royal family, with several members facing health and personal challenges.
King Harald was hospitalised earlier this year while on a private trip to Tenerife with Queen Sonja, while the queen herself was later treated for heart-related problems.
Crown Princess Mette-Marit has also faced serious health challenges, while her son, Marius Borg Høiby, has been involved in a major legal case.
Despite the challenges surrounding the royal household, the Norwegian monarchy remains widely supported, with Harald’s modest personality and reputation as a unifying figure contributing significantly to his popularity.
As Norway prepares to welcome a new monarch, Crown Prince Haakon now takes on the responsibility of leading the royal house and continuing his father’s legacy.
