King Karle XVI Kustaa works a lot and is committed, but in civilian life he wants to live the life of an ordinary septuagenarian. This is what those who have met the king say about him in an interview with Iltalehti.
Court reporter Karin Lennmor tells what kind of king Charles XVI Gustav is in civilian.
– The royal couple has said that they have this rule: you can’t talk about work at breakfast. It is a sacred moment for them. Work matters are discussed only after breakfast has been enjoyed in peace.
Kaarle Kustaa has been king for 50 years. He works closely with his wife Queen Silvia. PDO
According to Lennmor, the king always has staff around him and his own adjutant by his side. If he goes running, the adjutant runs too. The security people are a little further away.
– Even at dinner there is often a king, queen and adjutant. Yes, a couple can have two, but usually it has to be proposed separately.
Casual clothes on top and a tractor underneath
If it is not a representative or work assignment, the royal couple can choose their clothes themselves.
– In Ölan, I have seen the queen dressed quite normally. For representative tasks, they are presented with clothing suggestions. In addition, it may be suggested to them that, for example, a dark-colored outfit would be suitable for today’s occasion.
Court reporter Karin Lennmor (right) has long collaborated with the royal family. Prince Daniel and Crown Princess Victoria are also pictured. KARIN LENNOMOR’S HOME ALBUM
According to Lennmor, the king wants to live the normal life of a man in his seventies.
– When they are in Öland in the summer, the king likes to drive a tractor. He borrows it and goes for a drive.
– The king also likes watching sports very much, both on site and on television. Of course, he also likes spending time with his children and grandchildren.
Despite his position, the king wants to live the normal life of a man in his seventies. PDO
Dutiful and hardworking
Ambassador of Finland to Stockholm Maimo Henriksson raises Kaarle Kustaata when describing the king’s sense of duty and the amount of work he does.
– I am absolutely impressed by his work pace and commitment, says Henriksson.
Henriksson had just started in Sweden as ambassador in 2021, and one of the first tasks was to present the letter of authorization to the king.
– I was the fifth ambassador he received. We had a pleasant conversation. The king told about the rest of his program for the day. Among other things, he received a group of parliament speakers from different countries and participated in several other meetings. The day was packed full of events, Henriksson recalls.
Maimo Henriksson started as Finland’s ambassador to Sweden in 2021. Karoliina Vuorenmäki
Later that evening, the Commander of the Defense Forces Timo Kivinen received an award from the king.
It was Friday evening and the king had already had a long day behind him.
– I am amazed at how many evening parties the royal couple has. We also work on weekends. The King and Queen are both very hardworking and committed to serving the nation.