Crown Prince Nguyễn Phúc Vĩnh Thuỵ ascended to the throne as Emperor Bảo Đại in the Imperial Palace, Huế, following the death of his father, Emperor Khải Định. The coronation was a grand affair that incorporated age-old traditions reflective of the Nguyễn Dynasty, the last ruling dynasty of Vietnam. Bảo Đại was only 12 years old at the time of his coronation, which led to significant regency and influence from senior officials and French colonial authorities. His ascendance marked a critical period in Vietnamese history as the nation was under French colonial rule, facing increasing opposition from nationalist movements.

The coronation ceremony included elaborate rituals symbolizing the divine mandate of the emperor, as well as the integration of various cultural elements that emphasized the significance of the monarchy in Vietnamese identity. While Emperor Bảo Đại was seen as a figurehead influenced by French interests, he became a critical point of reference for later nationalist sentiments. The late 1920s and 1930s would see a rise in movements against colonial rule, influencing the path of Vietnam leading up to future conflicts.

Bảo Đại's reign eventually took him through a tumultuous landscape of political challenges, including Japan's occupation during World War II, and Vietnam's quest for independence post-war. The implications of his rule and the circumstances surrounding his reign reflect a transition for Vietnam from monarchy to other forms of governance as the nation sought to shake off colonial influences.