Suthida

Suthida was born on 3 June 1978. She is ethnic Hokkien, coming from Thai Chinese family. She graduated from Hatyaiwittayalai Somboonkulkanya Middle School and Assumption University with a bachelor's degree in communication arts in 2000.[3] Suthida was formerly a flight attendant for JALways Airlines – which is now part of Japan Airlines – from 2000 to 2003 and later Thai Airways in 2003 until 2008.[5][6]

Suthida was appointed commander of Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn's household guard in August 2014. Suthida was linked romantically to the crown prince following his divorce from Srirasmi Suwadee.[7][8][9][10][11] In October 2016, international media reports labeled her as the designated king's "consort", despite the palace never officially declaring their relationship.[12][13]

On 13 October 2017, she was named a Dame Grand Cross (First Class) of The Most Illustrious Order of Chula Chom Klao,[14] which bestows the title Than Phu Ying (Thai: ท่านผู้หญิง). She is the first female officer to receive this honour since 2004 and the first in the reign of King Rama X.

On 1 December 2016, she was appointed Commander of the Special Operations Unit of the King's Guard and promoted to the rank of general.[15][16] She reached her present rank after only six years of service. She has successfully completed several military training courses.[17]

On 1 June 2017, she was appointed as acting commander of Royal Thai Aide-de-camp Department following the reorganization of the Royal Security Command.

Suthida's portrait being put on display at an organisation in Bangkok

On 1 May 2019, Suthida was made the queen consort of King Vajiralongkorn[4][18] whose coronation took place in Bangkok on 4–6 May 2019.[19] The marriage registration took place at the Amphorn Sathan Residential Hall in Bangkok, with her sister-in-law Princess Sirindhorn and President of Privy Council Prem Tinsulanonda as witnesses.[20]