King Charles Leads Tributes To Cousin King Harald After Death At 89

King Charles III has paid tribute to Norway’s King Harald V, describing him as his “dear cousin” following the monarch’s death at the age of 89.

The Royal Palace in Oslo announced on Friday, August 28, that Harald had died peacefully at 6:35 a.m. local time at Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet.

Charles was among the first European royals to publicly mourn Harald, praising his dedication to Norway during his 35-year reign.

“It is with the most profound sadness that my wife and I have learned of the death of my dear cousin, King Harald V of Norway,” Charles said in a message shared by the British Royal Family.

He described Harald as a monarch who served his people “with unwavering dedication”, guiding Norway through periods of significant change with warmth and humility.

Charles also highlighted the longstanding relationship between Britain and Norway, saying the countries’ “special bond” had been strengthened during World War II.

“The Queen and I extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to Queen Sonja and all her family,” he said.

Flags at Buckingham Palace, Clarence House, Windsor Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse have been lowered to half-mast following Harald’s death and are expected to remain so until 8 p.m. on Friday.

Tributes have also come from royal families and leaders across Europe as Norway mourns its late monarch. Harald’s son, King Haakon VIII, has succeeded him on the Norwegian throne.