Here's why:

* Normal force is a reaction force: It arises as a direct response to the object pressing against the surface. It's always perpendicular to the surface.

* Movement is not required: The normal force exists even when the object is stationary.

* Friction is related to movement: Friction is the force that opposes motion between surfaces in contact.

In simpler terms:

Think about a book sitting on a table. The book's weight pushes down on the table. The table, in turn, pushes back on the book with an equal and opposite force – this is the normal force. The book doesn't have to move for this force to exist.