This, Too, Is My Home: Remembering King Harald V

As an immigrant, I was not born on this land. I have now lived in Norway for 13 years, building my life, working here, and starting a family.

King Harald V accompanied this country through many years of its history. For many immigrants, he was more than a monarch. He represented stability, tolerance, and a sense of belonging. No matter where a person comes from, what language they speak, or what background they have, if they are willing to live here, work here, and take responsibility, they can become part of this society.

I have always remembered the vision of Norway he once expressed: Norwegians come from the north, the south, and from all over the world. We may love different people, and we may have different beliefs, but we still belong to the same country. [1]

For someone who has left their homeland and rebuilt a life in a foreign country, this kind of inclusiveness is not an empty phrase. It is something that gives a genuine sense of security and belonging.

Perhaps a homeland is simply the place where our ancestors’ wandering came to an end, and where the memories of future generations begin.

This reflection remembers King Harald V, who died on 28 August 2026. [2]

Thank you for watching over this country, and thank you to this country for allowing so many people like me, who came here from far away, to eventually be able to say:

This, too, is my home.

Rest in peace, Your Majesty.

Jun Chen: personal experience and reflections.