King Harald of Norway has undergone surgery to implant a pacemaker while on a private vacation in Langkawi, Malaysia. The 87-year-old monarch was hospitalized for an infection and had the procedure done at Sultanah Maliha Hospital.
Despite his health issues, King Harald celebrated his birthday in Malaysia with his wife, Queen Sonja. A medical evacuation plane from Scandinavian Airlines was sent to bring him back to Norway, with a stop in Dubai, UAE.
This is not the first time King Harald has faced health challenges. He had a heart valve replacement in 2020. However, he has no plans to abdicate the throne. Crown Prince Haakon has temporarily taken over his duties while he is hospitalized.
It is worth noting that King Harald’s role is largely ceremonial and he holds no political power in Norway. He became king in 1991 after the death of his father, King Olav, and is the country’s first native-born king in centuries.
Throughout his reign, King Harald has been praised for his leadership and empathy, especially during national tragedies like the 2011 mass killing by Anders Behring Breivik. Despite his health setbacks, he remains dedicated to his duties as monarch of Norway.
