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Norway's King Harald V has passed away at the age of 89, after he was taken to hospital last week for treatment for a rare blood condition.
On Friday, August 28, the palace in Oslo announced the heartbreaking news, sharing that the monarch passed away peacefully at 6:35 local time at the national hospital in Oslo.
Royal Family surrounds King Harald's bedside
The death announcement came just a day after it was reported that the members of the royal family had gathered at Oslo University Hospital amid the monarch's deteriorating health.
Prince Haakon, wife, Princess Mette-Marit and Queen Sonja, besides other members of the royal family, were by Harald V's bedside after confirming that he is in an "extremely serious" condition.
Harald was put on sick leave by the Palce for an extended period of time this week, with the statement noting, "The King is receiving antibiotics for a bacterial infection in his blood, and has responded to this treatment."
"His condition is stable. His Majesty will remain at Oslo University Hospital (Rikshospitalet) and is on sick leave until further notice,” it added.
Who will succeed King Harald V?
Harald was Norway's first king born in Norway since the 14th Century. He will be succeeded by his son Prince Haakon.
He is survived by his wife of almost 58 years, Queen Sonja, their daughter Princess Märtha Louise, their son, the new King Haakon, and six grandchildren.
Born on February 21, 1937, Harald was the King for 35 years, ascending to the throne when his father King Olav, died in January 1991.
