H.M. King´s Birthday is celebrated on July 28 every year in Thailand. The day commemorates the King of Thailand´s birthday, Vajiralongkorn, who was born on this day in 1952. He is the only son of King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit.
When he was 20, he was made crown prince by his father. In 2022, he turns and many celebrations will be held in his name because he is of importance to the Thai people.
History of H.M. King's Birthday
Vajiralongkorn was born on July 28, 1952, in the Amphorn Sathan Residential Hall of the Dusit Palace in Bangkok. He is the only son of King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit. When he was 20, he was made crown prince by his father. On October 13, 2016, his father died, so he was expected to ascend to the throne of Thailand. However, he asked for time to mourn before taking the throne.
It was on the night of December 1, 2016, that he accepted the throne. His coronation took place from May 4 to May 6, 2019. Even though his coronation took place several months before, the Thai government retroactively declared his reign to have begun on October 13, 2016, upon his father’s death. He is also known as RAMA X the tenth monarch of the Chakri dynasty. Being 64 when he accepted the throne, Vajiralongkorn became the oldest Thai monarch to ascend to the throne.
This holiday was previously celebrated on the birthday of King Bhumibol Adulyadej on December 5. Since 2017, the King’s Birthday has shifted to July 28, but December 5 remains a public holiday in Thailand to mark the birthday of King Bhumibol Adulyadej. On H.M. King’s Birthday, most banks, government offices, and businesses will be closed. Many shops will remain open and there is no ban on the sale of alcohol.
H.M. King's Birthday timeline
He is born on July 28, 1952, in the Amphorn Sathan Residential Hall of the Dusit Palace in Bangkok.
His father dies on October 13, 2016, and he is expected to ascend to the throne of Thailand.
His coronation takes place from May 4 to May 6, 2019.
The King's Birthday date shifts to July 28.
H.M. King's Birthday FAQs
What is the role of the monarchy in Thailand?
The Thai monarch discharges his roles under the country’s constitution and remains above partisan politics while continuing to contribute to the development and well-being of the Kingdom and its people.
Why is Thailand's monarchy so rich?
Much of the monarchy’s fortune stems from land and real estate holdings, and it is estimated to have about 40,000 rental contracts.
How old is Thailand?
Thailand dates to the 13th century, and according to tradition, Thai chieftains overthrew their Khmer overlords at Sukhothai in 1238 and established a Thai kingdom.
H.M. King's Birthday Activities
Attend ceremonies
Many ceremonies are held on this day to celebrate the birthday of the King. People attend festivities to celebrate Vajiralongkorn's birthday with their monarch.
Wear yellow
Officials attending ceremonies are advised to wear cream-colored attire with a black ribbon. People are also called to wear yellow on this day to celebrate the birthday of His Majesty The King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun.
Learn about Thai culture
This day is an opportunity to learn about Thailand's culture. Search information on the internet and learn about their culture and traditions.
5 Interesting Facts About H.M. King
The wealthiest monarch in the world
He is said to have a net worth estimated between U.S.$30 billion and U.S.$70 billion.
He has been married
Vajiralongkorn has been married and divorced three times.
He has daughters and sons
He has three daughters and five sons, and the four eldest sons were born before he married their mother.
He married a former acting commander
Three days before his coronation, Vajiralongkorn married Suthida Tidjai, former acting commander of the Royal Thai Aide-de-Camp Department.
He enrolled at the Royal Military College
He went to Australia to study, and his education at Duntroon was divided into two parts, military training, and a bachelor's degree course.
Why We Love H.M. King's Birthday
The King is important to Thailand
The monarchy is so important to the people of Thailand. Although the absolute monarchy ended in 1932, the institution today continues to command deep, universal respect and serves as a unifying element for the country.
Love for the King is in Thai roots
The people of Thailand love and revere their King. The monarchy in Thailand has been a pillar of stability. The Thai sense of identity is closely linked to the monarchy since this institution dates back more than 700 years.
The King´s Birthday is an opportunity to celebrate
H.M. King´s Birthday is the most spectacular celebration in Thailand. It is celebrated by everyone, and families gather and enjoy this special day.
H.M. King's Birthday dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | July 28 | Monday |
| 2026 | July 28 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | July 28 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | July 28 | Friday |
| 2029 | July 28 | Saturday |
