The Eccentric King

17.03.2022

Thailand’s royal family, compared to the constantly spotlighted British monarchy, is extremely secretive.

The country has strict laws that forbid citizens and the Thai press from insulting and reporting on embarrassing details about the family.

Thailand’s King Vajiralongkorn – his name means “adorned with jewels or thunderbolts” – was born on 28 July 1952, the first son and second child of Queen Sirikit and King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who had succeeded to the throne unexpectedly six years previously.

After attending schools in the U.K. and Australia, including latterly the Royal Military Academy, Duntroon, he joined the Royal Thai Army in 1975, and holds top ranks in all three branches of the armed forces.

He continued to receive advanced military training in Thailand, the UK, US and Australia, and became an officer in the Thai armed forces. He is a qualified civilian and fighter pilot, flying his own Boeing 737 when he travels overseas.

After his father passed away in October 2016, the prince ascended Thailand’s throne and became King Rama X, the 10th monarch of his royal house.

His coronation took place in May 2019, and it cost 1 billion baht. The grand affair stretched three days, and featured 1,300 people and elephants. He surprised the palace, however, three days before the coronation by marrying the general he appointed.

Although Thailand is a constitutional monarchy, the king wields much power. He commands an estimated 5,000 troops in the royal guard.

The eccentric king is also known for his love for dogs. When his pet poodle Foo Foo died in 2016, he gave him a four-day-long Buddhist funeral ceremony.

He used to dress Foo Foo up as an air chief Marshall and take him to formal events