Which fictional realm does Shao Kahn rule in Mortal Kombat?

Shao Kahn rules Outworld in Mortal Kombat.

Outworld is a powerful realm in the Mortal Kombat universe and the domain of Shao Kahn, its emperor. He expands his empire by conquering other realms and absorbing them into Outworld. This imperial ambition drives many of the conflicts between Outworld and Earthrealm.

Shao Kahn’s rule is connected to the political history of the series. He was originally a powerful adviser and later became the emperor of Outworld after overthrowing its previous ruler, Onaga. His forces include characters such as Goro, Kintaro, and the Tarkatan warrior Baraka.

Outworld should not be confused with Netherrealm, a separate realm associated with demons and characters such as Quan Chi and the fallen elder god Shinnok. Earthrealm is the human world defended by champions including Liu Kang, while Edenia is another realm whose history becomes intertwined with Shao Kahn’s conquests.