What happened today in history?
What happened
today in history?
Oct 21
Back

The Fall of Thailand's Royal Consort: Sineenat Wongvajirapakdi

The Rise and Fall of Sineenat Wongvajirapakdi

Who is Sineenat Wongvajirapakdi?

Sineenat Wongvajirapakdi, born in 1985 in Thailand, emerged from relative obscurity to become the royal consort of King Maha Vajiralongkorn (Rama X) in 2019. She served in the Royal Thai Army, gaining fame not only for her beauty but also for her military career, which was unique for a woman in the royal sphere of Thailand.

Her Initial Rise to Royal Favor

On July 28, 2019, Sineenat was formally appointed as the King’s royal consort, a title last given to someone in the late 20th century. This significant recognition aligned her closely with the monarchy, plunging her into the spotlight and elevating her status in the country.

The Controversy of Misbehavior and Disloyalty

The King's Decision

Just two months after her elevation, the King shocked the nation by stripping Sineenat of all her royal titles. Citing reasons of "misbehavior and disloyalty against the monarch," this dramatic announcement sent waves through Thailand and beyond, raising questions about the nature of her transgressions.

Public Reaction and Implications

News of Sineenat's removal sparked widespread discussion regarding the monarchy’s complex relationship with the public and its transparency. Many in Thailand viewed the move as an assertion of royal authority, reflecting the potentially perilous nature of the position and the expectations placed on royal figures.

Fun Fact

Sineenat’s Military Background

Before her ascent to royal consort, Sineenat Wongvajirapakdi was a trained pilot and served as a nurse in the Thai military, emphasizing her capabilities beyond being just a royal figure.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Thai Monarchy

For those interested in learning more about the Thai monarchy and its history, consider reading "The King Never Smiles" by Paul Handley, which dives into the complexities of the monarchy, or "Thailand's Political History: From the 13th Century to Present" by A. Hamish Ion.