Death Anniversary of King Bhumibol Adulyadej in Thailand Date in the current year: October 13, 2024

At the time of his death, Bhumibol was the longest-reigning monarch in the history of Thailand and the world’s longest-serving head of state. He ascended the throne in 1946 at the age of 18 (although his coronation took place in 1950) and reigned until his death in 2016.

In the early years of his reign, Bhumibol was a ceremonial figure and had little political power. But the young king quickly gained popularity among his people and in merely a decade became a respected national leader whose authority could not be shaken even by 18 coups and coup attempts. Despite the ceremonial status of the Thai monarch, Bhumibol was actively involved in politics. He made a number of important decisions and played a key role in the country’s transition to a democratic system.

King Rama IX died on October 13, 2016 of kidney failure following a long illness. A year-long period of mourning was subsequently announced. The following day, his body was taken to the Grand Palace. Thousands of people lined up the streets to pay their tributes to the beloved monarch.