King Vajiralongkorn of Thailand has been rushed to an intensive Care Unit at Siriraj Hospital according to reports.
The 68-year-old monarch was admitted to ICU a few days ago after suffering from respiratory problems.
Andrew MacGregor Marshall, a journalist specialising in the activities of Thailand’s Royal Family, says The King’s condition is not understood to be life threatening.
Mr MacGregor Marshall tweeted: “King Vajiralongkorn was rushed to intensive care at Siriraj Hospital a few days ago because of respiratory problems, according to several informed sources.
“Sources say the king was initially treated at Bangkok Hospital then transferred to Siriraj when his condition became serious.
“Despite the rumours, right now there is no sign The King’s illness is life-threatening. He has respiratory problems, probably not Covid-related, and was in the ICU at Siriraj.”
Despite the rumours, right now there is no sign the king’s illness is life-threatening. He has respiratory problems, probably not covid-related, and was in the ICU at Siriraj. Can’t confirm any of the wilder rumours #ข่าวลือ
— Andrew MacGregor Marshall (@zenjournalist) May 13, 2021
There has been no official comment from the Thai Royal Household, with speculation becoming increasingly rampant on social media.
King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun was born to King Bhumibol Adulyadej and Queen Sirikit on 28 July 1952 in Bangkok.
The 68-year-old came to the throne after the death of his father in October 2016. His father was beloved in Thailand, and his death led to widespread mourning across the country.
The current King has faced significant opposition however, despite strict lèse majesté laws which can carry up to a 15-year prison sentence.
The King spends the majority of his time with his harem, including his Royal Noble Consort, in a hotel in Germany while the Queen resides in Switzerland. Mass protests have broken out in the past year throughout Thailand against his reign with people demanding a new Prime Minister, new constitution and a reform of the monarchy.
