Thousands of supporters flocked to a hospital in Bangkok Friday to wish King Bhumibol Adulydej a happy 87th birthday.
Plans for a public appearance were cancelled on the advice of his doctors who said the King was not ready for public appearances. He underwent surgery to remove his gallbladder in October.
Many hold the King in god-like reverence and said their spirits wouldn't be dampened whether he appeared in public or not.
(SOUNDBITE) (Thai) 37-YEAR OLD THEPWITOON CHIM-NGOG, SAYING:
"It doesn't matter whether he is appearing in front of a public audience or not. I'm just happy that I am here to show my loyalty to him. I'm happy no matter where he is."
The cancelled appearance has fuelled mounting concerns over the King's health and comes during a sensitive time for the country which only six months ago was overthrown in a military coup.
King Bhumibol's last public appearance was in November.
