World's Longest Serving Monarch, King Of Thailand Is Dead

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.