King of Thailand, dies at 88

World's longest-serving monarch, King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand has died at the age of 88 after reigning for 70 years as head of state.

He died on Thursday in Bangkok after suffering from poor health in the past few years.

King Bhumibol who became king of the kingdom once known as Siam following the World War II was widely respected by Thais across the country and was seen by many as semi-divine.

He was also seen as a unifying figure in a troubled Thailand during the country's cycles of political chaos and series of coups.

Thailand prime minister on Friday said crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn will be the new monarch.

Thousands of mourners on Friday night gathered outside the hospital in Bangkok where he died after the news of his death was made public.

Thais gathered outside the hospital where King Bhumibol Adulyadej died