June 12, (THEWILL) — Thailand’s Princess Bajrakitiyabha has died at the age of 47 after being in a coma for more than three years, the royal household has announced.
She died on June 11, 2026, at Chulalongkorn Hospital in Bangkok, the palace said.
The princess collapsed in December 2022 while training her dogs. She was later diagnosed with a severe heart rhythm condition linked to an infection.
Her condition gradually worsened over time, with the palace citing complications including infection, low blood pressure, and organ-related problems.
Princess Bajrakitiyabha was the eldest daughter of King Vajiralongkorn and his first wife, Princess Soamsawali. She was born on December 7, 1978.
Considered one of Thailand’s most accomplished royals, she earned a law degree from Cornell University in the United States and worked as a prosecutor in Thailand.
From 2012 to 2014, she served as the nation’s ambassador to Austria, Slovenia, and Slovakia
In later years, she focused on criminal justice reform, especially improving conditions for women in prison.
She also held senior roles in Thailand’s security services, including the Royal Security Command.
Widely regarded as the most accomplished and likely successor, her death leaves Thailand’s royal succession uncertain, as King Vajiralongkorn has not formally named an heir.
The Thai government has declared a period of national mourning, with funeral arrangements expected to follow royal tradition.
Evi Ben Ezaga writes on entertainment, culture, and trending stories.
