Japan Expresses Condolences After Death of Norway’s King Harald V
Tokyo, September 1, 2026: Japan has expressed deep sorrow following the death of Norway’s King Harald V, with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi conveying condolences to the Norwegian Royal Family, government and people on behalf of Japan.
In a statement issued on August 31, Prime Minister Takaichi described the Norwegian monarch as a figure who remained closely connected with his people throughout his reign and played an important role in Norway’s development and its contribution to international peace and prosperity.
A Relationship Built Over Decades
Japan’s government highlighted the longstanding friendship between the Japanese Imperial Family and the Norwegian Royal Family as an important foundation of bilateral relations.
The statement recalled that Harald V, while Crown Prince, participated as an athlete at the 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games. His connection with Japan continued through subsequent visits and participation in diplomatic, cultural and ceremonial exchanges.
According to the Japanese government, the late king visited Japan six times during his lifetime, contributing to people-to-people ties and closer relations between the two countries.
Japan Recognises His International Role
Tokyo also remembered Harald V’s wider contribution during a period marked by significant international challenges.
Prime Minister Takaichi said his death represents a loss not only for Norway but also for the international community, while expressing solidarity with the Norwegian people as they deal with the passing of their monarch.
Japan-Norway Relations
Japan and Norway have maintained friendly relations across political, economic and cultural spheres. Their relationship has also benefited from exchanges between their royal and imperial families.
The Japanese government’s latest message places particular emphasis on the role played by King Harald V in maintaining those personal and institutional connections over several decades.
A Moment of National and International Mourning
The statement from Tokyo comes as Norway faces the transition following the death of a monarch who had been on the throne since 1991.
For Japan, the occasion has also provided an opportunity to recognise the historical links between the two countries and the personal contribution Harald V made to strengthening bilateral goodwill.
Prime Minister Takaichi concluded the message by expressing Japan’s thoughts for Norway as the country and its people face this period of national mourning.
