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King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck

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description King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck Overview

Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, born in 1980, is the fifth Druk Gyalpo, or Dragon King, of Bhutan. He succeeded his father, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, after the latter's abdication in 2006 and was formally crowned in 2008, the year Bhutan adopted its democratic constitution. His reign has coincided with the development of Bhutan's constitutional monarchy, and he is publicly associated with the country's Gross National Happiness approach to development.

help King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck FAQ

When did Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck become Bhutan's king?

He became the fifth Druk Gyalpo after his father, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, abdicated in 2006. His formal coronation took place in 2008, the same year Bhutan's democratic constitution came into effect.

Who is Queen Jetsun Pema?

Jetsun Pema is the queen consort of Bhutan and the wife of Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. Their royal wedding took place in Punakha in 2011.

Does Bhutan's king still rule as an absolute monarch?

No, Bhutan is a constitutional monarchy with an elected parliament and a prime minister. The 2008 Constitution defines the monarch's role and also provides a legal mechanism for abdication.

How is Jigme Khesar connected to Bhutan's Gross National Happiness policy?

Gross National Happiness was strongly associated with his father, the fourth king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. Jigme Khesar has continued to present balanced development, cultural preservation and public welfare as central Bhutanese priorities.

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