King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand, the world's longest serving monarch, has died.
Thailand's King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the world's longest reigning monarch, has died aged 88, the palace has confirmed.
"His Majesty has passed away at Siriraj Hospital peacefully," the palace said, adding he died just before 4:00pm (local time).
His son and heir apparent, the 63-year old Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, is expected to become Thailand's new king.
The palace did not give a reason for his death.
His reign lasted more than 70 years.
King Bhumibol Adulyadej was just 18 when he took the throne unexpectedly in 1946.
Though he had no real power, since the absolute monarchy ended in 1932, King Bhumibol was seen as a unifying force. His long reign remained the backdrop to decades of political upheaval, including a coup two years ago when army generals seized power.
Although King Bhumibol nominated his only son as his successor, Prince Vajiralongkorn is yet to achieve the same popularity as his father.file pix