Norway's new King Haakon VIII ascended the throne after his father's death. He once sought distance from royal life and its constant public attention. Haakon found freedom and a sense of self while living in California. His marriage to Mette-Marit brought him closer to public engagement. The new king now faces family scrutiny and institutional challenges.

COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP) — Norway has a new king, whose tasks will include stabilizing the Scandinavian country's monarchy and boosting the royal family's popularity after his…

Crown Prince Haakon has become Norway's new king following the death of his father, King Harald V, at the age of 89, taking the throne after years of gradually assuming greater…