King Bhumibol Adulyadej was not destined to become the King of Thailand. After King Prajadhipok abdicated in 1935 a decision was made to ascend Bhomibol’s brother Ananda to the throne. Ananda was assassinated in June 1946. Bhumibol studying engineering in Switzerland then changed to political science and would ascent the throne in 1950.
In my opinion based on talks with my Thai friends. Even though he was the King, they feel he was down to Earth and frugal in his ways. He was raised like a normal child without the trappings of monarchy, did his chores, attended school (in Switzerland) without any special privilege. He then devoted his life to enhancing the quality of life of his subjects.
What makes King Bhumibol popular
Royal Patronage - He spent the majority of his time during his working years on projects to improve the life of the poorest of people within Thailand. Notable projects include the Royal Project Foundation in Chiang Mai, Shrimp farm aerators and rain cloud seeding technologies.
Medicine - Promoting rural medical care to villages that lack sufficient access to medicine. His daughter Sirindhorn - Wikipedia now operates the majority of the medical projects
Music - He was a jazz musician. A notable discography includes H. M. Blues (His Majesty Blues). This includes various compositions written by King Bhumibol and his son Vajiralongkorn - Wikipedia
Photographer - He was constantly with his camera during his time visiting regions within Thailand. This created a large body of documentation that was useful to the operations of the projects.
Sports - His majesty was an avid sailor. This lead to projects to promote sports among the Thai people in order to maintain health and wellness. 'King of Sports' mourned
His majesty has also won the United Nations Development Programme’s inaugural Human Development Lifetime Achievement Award. THAI KING’S DEVELOPMENT AGENDA, VISIONARY THINKING INSPIRATION TO PEOPLE EVERYWHERE, SAYS SECRETARY-GENERAL TO BANGKOK PANEL
My wish is that more world leaders can follow the example of Thailand’s past king, Bhumibol Adulyadej by creating true peace, development and co-operation among all people of the world.
From the U.N. article linked above:
At his coronation in 1946, His Majesty uttered the famous Oath of Accession: “We shall reign with righteousness, for the benefit and happiness of the Siamese people.” Ever since, His Majesty has lived this Oath, selflessly devoting his time and efforts to the well-being and welfare of the people of Thailand, regardless of their ethnicity, religion or legal status.