Thailand's new king Vajiralongkorn makes first public appearance

Bangkok: A day after being proclaimed as the new king of Thailand on Thursday, Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn made his first public appearance on Friday.

The 64-year-old ended a 50-day period of uncertainty since the death of his father and late King Bhumibol Adulyadej on October 13.

The new King led prayers for his late father during his his public appearance at Bangkok's Grand Palace.

The ceremony which was broadcast live on naitional television offered Thais the very first glimpse of their new king.

The Thai monarchy is considered one of the richest in the world.

Earlier, he was reportedly invited to take over the new role by the National Legislative Assembly (NLA) after after weeks of protocols.

"I agree to accept the wishes of the late king... for the benefit of the entire Thai people," AFP quoted Vajiralongkorn as saying.

The ascension ceremony at his Bangkok palace was attended by the powerful junta leader Prayut Chan-O-Cha, the chief of the NLA, among others.

Buddhist temples across the country were asked to beat drums and gongs after his proclamation, the report said.