Like European Christian kings of the past, however wretched or debauched his private life may be (I have no idea about King Bhumibol I haven’t followed his life) at least in public, the Thai nation expects him to show the virtues of justice, peace, tolerance, humility, self-sacrifice - all excellent Buddhist ideals. In this, I have respect for Him and the institution. Both unite the people toward admirable ideals and behavior.
It sounds obvious this would be the case — but in fact, there are many nations and cultures who simply have never had such values. Moreover, there are those who once had them, but now look down on these common virtues.
Item not widely known.
He was an American. Born in Massachussetts hospital while his parents were students at Harvard.