Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, 64, became Thailand’s new king today after accepting an invitation from parliament to succeed his father, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who died in October. He will be known as King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun.
Lucky for me, he will also be known as Rama X, or the 10th king of Thailand’s Chakri Dynasty. That one I can pronounce.
The new king’s coronation is “at his discretion” and will not take place until after a royal cremation for his father next year.
“May all the Thai people unite to pray that the powers of King Bhumibol and past kings protect the new king so that he may long reign as an idol and guardian of the Thai people,” Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha said.
