King Haakon honors late father Harald in first speech
By The BriefBrief
Norway’s new King Haakon VIII paid an emotional tribute to his late father, Harald V, in his first address to the nation. He vowed to follow his own path and said he would uphold Norway’s democracy, unity and inclusive values.
WHO:King Haakon VIII
WHAT:King Haakon VIII delivered his first speech as sovereign, honoring his late father Harald V and pledging to uphold Norway’s democracy, unity and inclusive values.
WHEN:Reported Aug 29, 2026 at 6:22 PM ET
WHERE:Norway
WHY:The speech was his first address to the nation as sovereign, during which he chose to pay tribute to his late father and make a pledge for his reign.
How this story developed (showing 4 of 4 earlier reports)