Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn, commonly referred to as King Rama X, is ranked the richest monarch in the world, according to Business Standard. His monumental wealth has brought him global acclaim, even making his net value higher than that of some top global billionaires.
The King’s personal wealth is an estimated Rs. 3.7 lakh crore (USD 43 billion). It is due to a mix of inheritance and huge investments. The bulk of the wealth arrived after he inherited the throne and properties upon the death of his father, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, in 2016.
King Vajiralongkorn officially took the throne in 2019, following the death of King Bhumibol on October 13, 2016, at the age of 88. In addition to royal titles, he inherited a humongous empire of properties and holdings that made him one of the richest people in the world.
His property holdings are nothing less than phenomenal. It’s reported that he has around 17,000 properties scattered all over Bangkok. His personal collection consists of more than 300 high-end vehicles from leading manufacturers and an unbelievable 38 private aircraft, indicative of his taste for opulence. His lavishness is not limited to land, his report is said to own 52 gold-adorned boats.
The lineage of King Vajiralongkorn is filled with history and honor. He is the sole son of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who held one of the longest reigns in recent history, and Queen Sirikit. His childhood involved schooling in different countries. According to Reuters, “he finished high school in Thailand, Britain, and Australia before attending Canberra’s elite Royal Military College,” where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in military studies.
To his diverse personality, the King also adds the expertise of a trained pilot. He is purported to hold licenses for flying fighter aircraft and helicopters, which reflects his robust military background. Throughout the 1970s, he was an active participant in military campaigns against communist rebels in Thailand.
King Vajiralongkorn’s own life has also attracted quite a bit of interest from the public over the years. He has married four times, each relationship garnering tremendous media attention—similar to his lavish expenses and life decisions.
Despite all the controversy and negative publicity, King Vajiralongkorn is still among the most influential and richest kings in the world.
