BANGKOK - Thailand's King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who was the world's longest-reigning monarch, died in hospital on Thursday, the palace said in an announcement. The palace did not give a reason for his death. He was 88 years old. 'His Majesty has passed away at Siriraj Hospital peacefully,' the palace said, adding he died at 15:52 (0852 GMT). His son and heir apparent, the 63-year old Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, is expected to become Thailand's new king.