04 Nov,2023
Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, born in 1980, is the eldest son of the fourth Dragon King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, and Queen Tshering Yangdon.
He ascended to the throne in November 2008 after his father abdicated in his favor, becoming the fifth Dragon King.
After attending a Bhutan public school, the young prince received his education in the United States, including Phillips Academy and Cushing Academy in Massachusetts, and later studied at Wheaton College.
Known for his interest in basketball, photography, and history, the prince was once considered one of Asia's most eligible bachelors and even faced female admirers during an official visit to Thailand.
The Dragon King's heart was won by Jetsun Pema, a descendant of one of Bhutan's oldest noble families. They got engaged in May 2011 and tied the knot in a royal wedding in October of the same year.
King Jigme emphasized the importance of character and commitment in his queen, saying, "As my queen, I have found such a person, and her name is Jetsun Pema."
The royal couple has two sons, Prince Jigme Namgyel, born in 2016, who is the heir to the throne, and Jigme Ugyen Wangchuck, born in 2020.
The Dragon King and Queen are well-known internationally and have hosted foreign dignitaries, including the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and attended events like the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II.
King Jigme is beloved by the people of Bhutan and is often referred to as the "people's king." He has played a significant role in the democratization of Bhutan and decriminalization of homosexuality.
The Dragon King delivers inspiring speeches to his citizens, encouraging them to strive for higher standards in education, business, and civil service, contributing to the modernization of the mountain nation.