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The new king has largely maintained a low-key public persona, reflecting Norway’s preference for modesty over royal extravagance.
Born on July 20, 1973, Haakon attended public schools before serving in the navy. (Image: AP/ File)
King Haakon VIII has become Norway’s new monarch following the death of his father, King Harald V, on Friday, taking charge of a royal institution known for its understated and modern image.
The 53-year-old king automatically succeeded Harald and told the government during a meeting that he would retain the family motto: “All for Norway.”
All About King Haakon VIII
Haakon now inherits the throne at a challenging time for the Norwegian royal family, which has faced a series of controversies involving members of his household. His wife, Queen Mette-Marit, has undergone a lung transplant after being diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis. She has also faced scrutiny over her past association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, AFP reported.
Royal Family Scandals
Haakon’s stepson, Marius Borg Høiby, was convicted of rape and assault in June and sentenced to four years in prison. He has appealed the verdict.
The new king has largely maintained a low-key public persona, reflecting Norway’s preference for modesty over royal extravagance. He has championed issues including environmental protection, racism and equal rights.
“It’s important that we protect who we are and for Norway to be a country where we’re allowed to love and be with whoever we want,” Haakon said after a deadly attack targeting Oslo’s gay community in 2022.
Born on July 20, 1973, Haakon attended public schools before serving in the navy. He later studied political science at the University of California, Berkeley, and international politics at the London School of Economics.
He married Mette-Marit, a commoner and single mother, in 2001. They have two children, Princess Ingrid Alexandra and Prince Sverre Magnus.
His sister, Princess Märtha Louise, has also attracted controversy, including over her marriage to American self-styled shaman Durek Verrett.
Despite the challenges surrounding the royal family, Haakon remains widely trusted. A March poll found that nearly eight in 10 Norwegians believed he would make a good king.
Royal reporter Caroline Vagle said Haakon has “shown himself to be a man who remains steady in the face of a storm, and that is a very valuable quality in a monarch.”
About the Author
Manisha Roy is a Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com’s general desk. She comes with an experience of over 5 years in media industry. She covers politics and other hard news. She can be contacted at Manish…Read More
August 28, 2026, 10:56 PM IST
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