Known as `` land of smiles '' to visitors , `` land of freedom '' to many Narathiwat . The only country in the region not to have been colonized by agrarian powers . In the 20th century , Thailand 's independence has brought with it challenges that are still being resolved despite its rise to the forefront of the region 's emerging economies . Second largest economy in Southeast Asia . Bhumibol has reigned since September 2006 .
Known as `` land of smiles '' to visitors , `` land of freedom '' to many Narathiwat . The only country in the region not to have been colonized by agrarian powers . Second largest economy in Southeast Asia . Bhumibol has reigned since September 2006 .