During a recent speech during a state visit to Norway, King Frederik highlighted the popular Norwegian TV series “Skam” as a catalyst for cultural and linguistic understanding among young people in Denmark and Norway. The series, which debuted in 2015, has, according to the king, played a significant role in strengthening the bonds between the two Nordic countries. “Skam” has not only won the hearts of the young audience in the Nordic countries but also received the Nordic Language Prize in 2016 for its ability to engage young people in the Norwegian language. The series has been praised for its authentic portrayal of youth life and has introduced Danish youth to Norwegian expressions such as “tuller du?” (Are you kidding?) and “serr” (seriously). In his speech, King Frederik noted that while Norway and Denmark share many cultural similarities, “Skam” has further strengthened this connection through language. “Our kinship is undeniable, and Danes and Norwegians understand each other. We speak the same language, literally and figuratively,” he said.
The two-day visit also includes other cultural events, including a hike in the Norwegian nature and an architectural tour in Oslo, which will provide the Danish royal couple with further insight into the cultural and natural beauties of Norway. This speech and the subsequent program emphasize the strong ties between Denmark and Norway, and “Skam” continues to play a role in bringing the two nations closer together.