Thailand National Flag: History, Symbols and the September 28 Celebration
The Thai national flag, the Thong Trairong, embodies the nation, Buddhism, and the monarchy. On September 28, Thailand commemorates its official adoption with National Flag Day.
The current Thai flag: the Thong Trairong
The national flag of Thailand, called Thong Trairong (the tricolor), was officially adopted on September 28, 1917 by King Rama VI.
It consists of five horizontal stripes: red, white, blue, white, and red.
- Red: the nation, the sacrifice and unity of the different ethnic groups.
- White: the purity of Buddhism, practiced by 95% of the population.
- Blue: the monarchy and its central role in Thai life.
The choice of red, white and blue also reflects Thailand’s alignment with the Allies during World War I (France, the United Kingdom, the United States, Russia).
The historical evolution of the Thai flag
The first flags (17th – 18th century)
Under the reign of King Narai (1656-1688), the first known flag was a simple red banner, raised to salute a French ship. Red, the aristocratic color, became the first emblem of the Siamese kingdom.
The white elephant (19th century)
In 1802, King Rama II added a white elephant — a royal and sacred symbol — to the red background. In 1855, Rama IV removed the chakra (wheel of Vishnu) for better visibility and kept the white elephant, which became the most representative emblem of Siam.
The transition to the tricolor (20th century)
In 1916, Rama VI replaced the elephant with red and white stripes to avoid confusion when flags were flown upside down during floods.
A year later, in 1917, the central blue stripe was added, giving birth to the flag we know today.
September 28 in Thailand: National Flag Day
Since 2017, September 28 has been officially recognized as Thailand’s National Flag Day.
This date commemorates the adoption of the Thong Trairong in 1917 and highlights its importance for national unity and identity.
How is September 28 celebrated?
- Ceremonies are held across the country.
- In schools, institutions, and government offices, the flag is raised with music and the national anthem.
- Provinces organize commemorative events to reinforce the sense of belonging and pride.
This day emphasizes patriotism and the strong link between nation, Buddhism, and monarchy, the three fundamental pillars of Thailand.
Other important flags in Thailand
The national flag often flies alongside other emblems:
- Royal flags: yellow for King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX), blue for Queen Sirikit.
- The Buddhist flag: yellow or orange with a red Dharma wheel, visible in temples and during festivals.
These flags reflect the strong connection between religion, royalty, and national identity.
Interesting facts about the Thai flag
- The Thong Trairong is used for all official purposes: civil, state, and maritime flag.
- Its symmetry makes it impossible to fly upside down.
- The flag is raised every morning at 8:00 AM and lowered at 6:00 PM, accompanied by the national anthem.
FAQ: Thai National Flag and September 28
When was the current Thai flag adopted?
The current flag was adopted on September 28, 1917 by King Rama VI.
What do the colors of the Thai flag symbolize?
Red represents the nation and sacrifice, white Buddhism and purity, and blue the monarchy.
Why was the Thai flag changed in 1917?
King Rama VI wanted a modern, symmetrical, and recognizable flag, aligned with the Allies of World War I.
What is National Flag Day?
It is a day celebrated every September 28, in memory of the official adoption of the Thong Trairong.
What happens in Thailand on September 28?
On September 28, official and school ceremonies mark National Flag Day, a symbol of unity in the kingdom.
