Norway mourns King Harald V as Crown Prince Haakon becomes King Haakon VIII

Tens of thousands of Norwegians gathered in Oslo on Saturday to pay their respects to King Harald V, who died at the age of 89. The square in front of the Royal Palace, Slottsplassen, was covered in flowers and condolence cards as mourners filed past in a steady stream.

Palace staff worked to preserve the tributes, with a gardener clearing some bouquets to keep pathways open and workers drying cards after an overnight downpour, according to Norwegian broadcaster NRK. One mourner, Roni Ervik, described the atmosphere as "special, intimate, and lovely," expressing gratitude to the late king and the royal family.

Harald V died Friday morning, and Crown Prince Haakon, 53, has now ascended the throne as King Haakon VIII. He has adopted the motto "All for Norway," which dates back to his great-grandfather. His wife is now Queen Mette-Marit, and their oldest child, Ingrid Alexandra, has become Crown Princess and heir to the throne.

Haakon is well-prepared for his new role, having served as regent on several occasions in recent years as his father's health declined. Later on Saturday, a choir was expected to perform at the Royal Palace Square, and the new king was scheduled to hold audiences with the speaker of parliament, the chief justice, and the presiding bishop of the Lutheran Church of Norway.

Haakon is expected to address the nation in his first speech as king in the coming days. His early reign will also involve managing public support for the monarchy following controversies involving his wife's past contacts with Jeffrey Epstein and his stepson's rape conviction.

A funeral date has not yet been set, and the country remains in an official state of mourning, with some postponing celebrations like weddings and baptisms. Norway's monarchy traces its roots to the ninth century, and the role is largely symbolic today, with political power resting in the elected parliament.