I have been extremely touched by these signs of affection on the part of all the Thai people.

In the military governments of Sarit Dhanarajata and his successors (1958–1980) Bhumibol was re-portrayed as the "Development King" and the inspiration of the economic and political goals of the regime. The network's ability to exercise power is based partly on Bhumibol's popularity and strict control of Bhumibol's popular image. Most of his degrees came from Thai universities: for instance Kasetsart University awarded him ten honorary doctoral degrees at once.

Bhumibol is respected and revered by many Thais. Bhumibol invited public criticism in a 2005 speech resulting in thousands of arrests. Bhumibol is credited with a social-economic theory of self-sufficiency.