Thailand celebrates King's 88th birthday

(Baonghean.vn) - Today (December 5), Thailand jubilantly celebrates the 88th birthday of King Bhumibol Adulyadej - the world's longest-reigning monarch and the National Day of the Kingdom of Thailand.

Thai people attend the celebration of the 88th birthday of King Bhumibol Adulyadej on December 5. Photo: Reuters

However, Thai officials said the king would not appear in public on his birthday due to health reasons. Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn is expected to perform the birthday ceremonies in his father's place, including a candle-lighting ceremony in honor of the king in the evening in Bangkok.

The King has been hospitalized for a number of illnesses and recently had his gallbladder removed. The Thai people are extremely concerned about the health of the King, whom they greatly respect.

"I always have deep affection for His Majesty the King and wish him good health... Thailand's National Day is also the King's birthday. He is our father," said Suchada Charan, a Bangkok resident.

The celebrations come as police widen their investigation into the actions of a group of people accused of insulting the monarchy. Since taking power in May 2014, Thailand’s military government has severely punished those who insult the monarchy, with the maximum penalty for the offence being 60 years in prison.

Phuong Thao

(According to Reuters)