King Harald V of Norway is currently receiving treatment in a hospital in Malaysia for an infection he contracted while on vacation. The 87-year-old monarch fell ill during a private trip to the Southeast Asian country, as confirmed by the Norwegian royal household in a statement released on Tuesday.
Due to his hospitalization, Crown Prince Haakon, the King's son, will be fulfilling his father's engagements back home. The royal household expressed gratitude for the care provided by both Malaysian and Norwegian medical personnel.
This recent health setback adds to a series of other health challenges faced by King Harald in recent years. He had previously been hospitalized for infections in May and December of 2022.
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre expressed his sadness upon hearing the news and wished the King a speedy recovery. The King's hospitalization occurred shortly after he celebrated his 87th birthday.
Despite his health issues, King Harald has indicated his intention not to abdicate the throne. During a recent visit to a fact-checking website, he reaffirmed his commitment to his oath to the Storting, stating that it is a lifelong pledge.
King Harald ascended to the throne in January 1991 at the age of 53. Over the years, he has faced various health challenges, including undergoing surgery for bladder cancer in 2003 and heart valve problems in 2005. In January 2022, he underwent a leg operation and later tested positive for COVID-19, followed by hospitalization for another infection in August of the same year.
