Who Is Jigme Singye Wangchuck? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Jigme Singye Wangchuck was born on November 11, 1955. As of 2025, he is 69 years old. He served as the Druk Gyalpo (King) of Bhutan from 1972 until his abdication in 2006, during which time he was renowned for his progressive policies and the promotion of Gross National Happiness over traditional economic measures. His reign marked a significant period of development and modernization for Bhutan.
| Occupation | King |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 11, 1955 |
| Age | 69 Years |
| Birth Place | Dechencholing Palace, Thimphu, Bhutan |
| Horoscope | Scorpio |
| Country | Bhutan |
Popularity
Jigme Singye Wangchuck's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While specific height and weight details of Jigme Singye Wangchuck are not publicly documented, he is often described as an athletic and dignified figure. It is essential to note that physical appearance details may vary due to age and personal health choices.
His Majesty believed that true progress for the Bhutanese people should be assessed through their happiness and overall quality of life.
This belief is deeply rooted in Bhutan's ancient legal code from 1629, which stated that "if the government cannot create happiness for its people, then there is no purpose for the government to exist." This code, written by a Buddhist teacher, emphasized that laws must promote happiness for all sentient beings, a principle found in the Buddhist te
achings.
A 1986 royal decree instructed the Planning Commission to evaluate the nation's progress based on the happiness and comfort of its people under the auspices the 6th Five Year Plan. GNH is structured to include measurements of well-being rather than purely economic indicators. its four pillars are : 1.
Sustainable and equitable socioeconomic development; 2. Conservation of the Environment; 3. Preservation and Promotion of Culture; and 4. Good Governance.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, Jigme Singye Wangchuck is married to Queen Ashi Tshering Pem, whom he wed in 1988. The couple has four children, including the current Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. The royal family is known for their close-knit bonds and deep commitment to Bhutan's cultural heritage. There is no public record of any romantic relationships outside of his marriage.
Jigme Singye Wangchuck (, ; born 11 November 1955) is the fourth Druk Gyalpo (Dragon King) of Bhutan, reigning from 1972 to 2006. He is the father of the present King of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck. He is the only son of five children born to the Third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck and Queen Mother Ashi Kesang Choden.
Net Worth and Salary
Jigme Singye Wangchuck's net worth is estimated to be in the range of millions, largely due to his royal status and various investments. While exact figures are often undisclosed, his wealth derives from his royal duties, family assets, and the investments made in Bhutan’s growing economy.
The Chukha Hydel Project, commissioned in 1987, was an early hydropower effort. It became a significant source of revenue, primarily through exports to India.
Career, Business, and Investments
Jigme Singye Wangchuck is celebrated for his significant contributions to Bhutan's development and for pioneering the concept of Gross National Happiness (GNH) as a model for policy-making. After abdicating the throne, he has been involved in various charitable initiatives promoting education, health, and sustainable development. His expertise in business and governance has made him a respected figure in leadership forums both domestically and internationally.
Throughout his reign, Jigme Singye Wangchuck implemented various socio-economic policies to enhance the quality of life in Bhutan. He emphasized the need to develop industry, agriculture, hydroelectricity, and infrastructural projects while prioritizing environmental and cultural preservation.
The success of these policies can be seen in indicators such as increased access to education and healthcare, improvements in infrastructure, and the promotion of Bhutan's unique cultural heritage. He was also responsible for the development of new policies in the environment and improved access to education and healthcare.
Social Network
Although Jigme Singye Wangchuck is known for maintaining a relatively low-profile presence on social media, he is often featured in numerous publications and royal family-related updates. For official information and updates related to the royal family, followers are encouraged to check out the official Bhutan royal family website and their appearances on various news outlets.
- Training Programs: The establishment of institutions like the Royal Institute of Health Sciences in 1976 helped train healthcare professionals to address the shortage of qualified personnel.
Education
Jigme Singye Wangchuck completed his early education in Bhutan before continuing his studies in the West, particularly at St. Joseph's Academy in Darjeeling, India. He later pursued further education at the University of Delhi, where he received an education that would shape his leadership style and understanding of governance.
Jigme Singye Wangchuck began his education when he was six years old, in 1961, receiving a blend of both Buddhist and secular curricula at Dechencholing Palace. His formal education started with traditional teaching and was followed by the study of English and modern subjects, taught by trained teachers at the palace.
The school at Dechencholing began with 45 students. Soon afterward, he went to study at St. Joseph's School, Darjeeling, in India. In January 1965, he attended Summerfields School in St. Leonards, Sussex, England, and then Heatherdown School in 1966 where he completed his studies in 1969.
The next phase of his formal education took place at Namselling Palace in 1969. Finally, he attended Ugyen Wangchuck Academy at Satsham Choten in Paro, which was established in 1970, along with a class of selected students from all over Bhutan.
