In his address, Haakon highlighted the need for national togetherness, expressing the royal family's commitment to a community grounded in law and equity, where every person holds the same value.

He described Harald as an excellent parent to him and his sibling, Princess Märtha Louise, in addition to being a caring and humorous grandparent to the six grandchildren and a devoted spouse to Queen Sonja.

The monarch seemed to hold back emotion while mentioning that the upcoming Saturday marked what would have been their 58th wedding anniversary.

Harald united the family through an inherent leadership quality that he may not have fully recognized, as recalled by his son.

The new king emphasized that his father had remained faithful to his principles and promises throughout.

"He always encouraged us in the family to handle matters according to our individual approaches. Develop our personal manner. Stay true to who we are," Haakon remarked.

He also commented on the intense and touching moment of witnessing numerous Norwegians assemble near the royal residence in Oslo, carrying blooms, memorials, and lights.

"We find ourselves in sorrow, but simultaneously it provides solace and fortitude that so many share in our grief," he stated.

Since the announcement of Harald's passing on Friday, citizens have been placing floral tributes at the palace in Oslo. A nationwide mourning period is in effect, though the funeral date remains undecided.

Norway's Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre was among those paying respects by leaving flowers and signing the condolence register at the palace following his meeting with the new king. He noted the nation stands "together in sorrow and appreciation".

On Tuesday, Haakon is set to pledge his loyalty in the legislative assembly and join a dedication ceremony alongside his spouse, Queen Mette-Marit. This represents a simplified form of what was once a coronation ceremony, no longer practiced in Norway.

He takes on his responsibilities during a challenging period, marked by health issues and controversies within the royal household this year.

Mette-Marit faced questions after details emerged of her three-year acquaintance with the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, prompting her public apology.

Following that, she underwent a lung transplant due to pulmonary fibrosis that began in 2018. Physicians will not confirm her condition as stable until the following year, requiring her husband to juggle official responsibilities with her well-being.

Her son from an earlier relationship, Marius Borg Høiby, received a conviction in June for rape and additional crimes, resulting in a four-year prison term. He is pursuing an appeal.

Although not part of the royal lineage, Høiby was brought up alongside the family from age four, after Haakon's marriage to his mother.

Haakon's sister, Märtha Louise, has also drawn attention for her 2024 remarriage to an American who presents himself as a shaman, with their commercial endeavors leading her to withdraw from royal obligations.

Avoiding direct mention of these issues, Haakon noted in his speech: "Our family has come to appreciate the value of unity to stay resilient both internally and mutually, even amid tough periods."

He expressed that he, Mette-Marit, and Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra would "persistently aim to comprehend the circumstances of various individuals".

He further stated: "Nobody residing in this nation can predict our shared future, yet we are certain that we will support each other in times of joy and hardship alike."

Despite Harald's enduring popularity at the time of his death, a survey conducted for Aftenposten newspaper indicated a decline in monarchical support from 72% in 2024 to 54%.

Nevertheless, experts on Norwegian royalty informed the BBC that the incoming king, despite inquiries regarding family turbulence, is viewed as respected and diligent, with the belief that he can progress beyond the obstacles.