Tens of thousands mourn King Harald V in Oslo as Norway enters new royal era

OSLO, Norway (AP) — Tens of thousands of mourners gathered to pay tribute to King Harald V of Norway. Many of them, despite the pouring rain, lined the streets as the coffin with the king's body was brought to the Royal Palace. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Associated Press.

On Friday, August 28, 2026, the coffin of King Harald V was driven in a cortege from the chapel at the National Hospital through Oslo and on to the Royal Palace. Thousands of people gathered along the route to bid farewell to the king. Among them were those who lined up at Queen's Park.

King Harald V was 87 years old. His death has caused deep sorrow in the country. The number of mourners reached tens of thousands. Many of them held flowers, paying their last respects to the king.

After the coffin was brought to the Royal Palace, the country entered a new era with the new King Haakon. Haakon, the heir to Harald V, ascended the throne and will lead the country into a new period.

One of the mourners, 45-year-old Oslo resident Anna Larsen, said: "We loved the king very much. He did a lot for our country. It is very hard to say goodbye to him."

Another mourner, 60-year-old Per Berg, noted: "Harald V was a symbol of unity for our country. His death is a great loss for us."

After the coffin was brought to the Royal Palace, the mourning ceremony continues. A period of national mourning has been declared.

King Harald V ruled Norway since 1991. He made a huge contribution to strengthening the country's independence and democracy. Under him, Norway's economy developed and its international standing grew.

Many foreign leaders have expressed their condolences over the king's death, including the US President, the UK Prime Minister, and other world leaders.

The funeral of King Harald V will take place in the coming days. It is expected that many heads of state from around the world will attend.

For the Norwegian people, this is a historic moment. The country is entering a new era with a new king. There is confidence that Norway will continue to develop under King Haakon.