158-2023 (BANGKOK) The two sons of Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn have concluded their first visit to Thailand in 27 years, departing from the country without making any public statements about their surprise arrival from the palace.
Vacharaeson Vivacharawongse, aged 42, arrived in Thailand last week and engaged in various activities, including a visit to a child care center and participation in religious ceremonies at a temple in Bangkok. Local media published photos over the weekend showing that his younger brother, Chakriwat, had also arrived and joined in the visit to a hospital, as well as paying homage to their ancestors.
Their visits come during a challenging period for the royal family, as the monarch’s eldest daughter has been in a coma since December.
“This week went by quickly. There were many things we wished to do and see in Thailand, but time was limited,” said Vacharaeson during a statement to reporters on Monday, just before departing from Suvarnabhumi airport, the country’s main airport. He expressed gratitude for the love and warmth they received from everyone they encountered during their visit.
Vacharaeson and Chakriwat are the second and third sons of King Vajiralongkorn from his second wife, Sujarinee Vivacharawongse, a former actress whom the then-crown prince divorced in 1996. Following the highly publicized divorce, during which his mother was accused of adultery, Vacharaeson, his mother, three brothers, and one sister became estranged from the royal family and relocated abroad.
Vacharaeson’s younger sister, however, was later reconciled with the royal family and bestowed with the royal title Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana.
