Who Is Vajiralongkorn? Age, Biography and Wiki
Vajiralongkorn, born on July 28, 1952, in Bangkok, Thailand, is the current King of Thailand, having ascended to the throne in 2016 following the passing of his father, King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Known as Rama X, he has a rich history rooted in the Chakri dynasty and has held the position of crown prince since 1972. As of 2025, Vajiralongkorn is 72 years old. His reign has been marked by significant political and social changes in Thailand, reflecting both traditional values and modern challenges.
| Occupation | Billionaire |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 28, 1952 |
| Age | 72 Years |
| Birth Place | Bangkok, Thailand |
| Horoscope | Leo |
| Country | Thailand |
Popularity
Vajiralongkorn's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While specific details about Vajiralongkorn's height and weight are not widely publicized due to his royal status, it is estimated that he stands approximately 6 feet tall (183 cm) and maintains a fit physique typical of a member of the royal family. His health and fitness are significant aspects of his public persona, emphasizing a disciplined lifestyle.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Vajiralongkorn's personal life has often attracted attention. As of 2025, he is married to Suthida Tidjai, who holds the title of Queen of Thailand. The couple wed in May 2019, solidifying Vajiralongkorn's commitment to modernizing the monarchy while maintaining traditional values. Previously, he has experienced several relationships and marriages, which have shaped public perception of his royal duties and personal life.
The only son of King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) and Queen Sirikit, he was made crown prince by his father in 1972, at the age of 20. After his father's death on 13 October 2016, he was expected to ascend to the Thai throne, but asked for time to mourn before taking the throne. He accepted the throne on the night of 1 December 2016.
His coronation took place from 4–6 May 2019. The government retroactively declared his reign to have begun at his father's death on 13 October 2016. Aged 64, Vajiralongkorn became the oldest Thai monarch to ascend to the throne. He is the wealthiest monarch in the world, with an estimated net worth between US$30 billion and US$70 billion.
Net Worth and Salary
Vajiralongkorn's net worth is a subject of speculation, but estimates suggest that it could be in the billions of dollars, primarily attributed to royal assets and investments. His wealth is derived from royal properties, investments in various sectors, and the management of royal estates. His salary as king is not openly disclosed, following the practices common among monarchies, but it is widely understood to be substantial.
In August 2011, the German judicial authorities in Munich impounded a Boeing 737 aircraft, one of two belonging to Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn. Administrators seized the aircraft because of a 20-year-old Thai government debt owed to a now-defunct German construction corporation for the Don Mueang Tollway, that had risen to some €30 million.
German authorities, representing the corporation's interests in bankruptcy, stated the measure was a "last resort" in seeking repayment. The Thai government, which had not responded to German demands, called the move "highly inappropriate". On 1 August, Vajiralongkorn's office announced he would pay the deposit amounting to €20 million himself.
One day later the Thai foreign minister Kasit Piromya confirmed that the Thai government would pay the deposit.
Career, Business and Investments
Vajiralongkorn has diverse investments and interests, ranging from agriculture to real estate. His business acumen aligns with his role in modernizing the monarchy, seeking to improve the economic prospects of Thailand while honoring its traditions. He actively participates in royal duties and events, focusing on the nation’s development, which has included promoting tourism and bolstering national pride.
After completing his studies, Vajiralongkorn served as a career officer in the Royal Thai Army. He started his army career as a staff officer in the Directorate of Army Intelligence and attended the Command and General Staff College in 1977.
After that he became Deputy Commander of the King Chulalongkorn's Own Guards, the 4th Infantry Battalion, 1st Infantry Regiment in 1978. In 1980 he was appointed as a Commander of the 4th Infantry Battalion, 1st Infantry Regiment. In 1992 he became Commander of the Royal Security Command.
Social Network
While Vajiralongkorn is known to maintain a low profile on social media compared to other public figures, the Thai royal family has a presence on several platforms, providing updates on royal activities and events. Authentic engagement with the public often takes place during royal ceremonies and national celebrations, fostering a connection with the Thai people.
In 2002, The Economist wrote that "Vajiralongkorn is held in much less esteem (than the then-king Bhumibol). Bangkok gossips like to swap tales of his lurid personal life...
Besides, no successor, however worthy, can hope to equal the stature King Bhumibol has attained after 64 years on the throne." This issue of The Economist was banned in Thailand.
In 2010, another issue of The Economist, also not distributed in Thailand, said that Vajiralongkorn was "widely loathed and feared" and "unpredictable to the point of eccentricity", while the online journal Asia Sentinel said that he was "regarded as erratic and virtually incapable of ruling"; the journal was blocked shortly thereafter.
In a leaked diplomatic cable, senior Singaporean foreign ministry official Bilahari Kausikan said that Vajiralongkorn had a gambling habit partly funded by exiled former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra.
Education
Vajiralongkorn’s education reflects his royal heritage, with studies at prestigious institutions. He attended military schools in Thailand and furthered his education at the esteemed Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom. His education has equipped him with the leadership skills necessary to navigate the complexities of a modern monarchy.
Vajiralongkorn began his education in 1956 when he entered kindergarten at the Chitralada School in Dusit Palace.
After completing Mathayom 1 (grade seven), he was sent to be educated at private schools in the United Kingdom, first at King's Mead prep school, Seaford, Sussex, and later at Millfield School in Somerset, where he completed his secondary education in July 1970.
In August 1970, he attended a five-week military training course at The King's School in Sydney, Australia.
