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King Harald V photographed in the Bird Room of the Royal Palace in Oslo, Norway, on April 8 of last year (local time). / EPA Yonhap

King Harald V of Norway, Europe's oldest reigning monarch, passed away on the 28th (local time) at the age of 89.

According to reports from outlets including CNN, the Norwegian Royal Court announced in a statement posted on its official website that King Harald V passed away at 6:35 a.m. at Rikshospitalet, Oslo University Hospital.

King Harald V was admitted on the 17th with hemolytic anemia, and after a bacterial bloodstream infection was discovered, he had been receiving antibiotic treatment until his condition deteriorated rapidly over the weekend.

The Royal Court announced on the 27th, the day before his passing, that his condition was critical.

Born on February 21, 1937, King Harald V ascended the throne in 1991 and reigned for 35 years.

Despite suffering various health issues in recent years, he remained on the throne, citing his oath of lifetime service made before parliament.

In Norway's constitutional monarchy, the monarch holds virtually no political power, but King Harald V exerted widespread influence through public activities, including directly consoling the public whenever national crises such as disasters occurred.

His son, Crown Prince Haakon (53), is set to succeed him to the throne.

                                                                                                           Kim Hyun-min