 From 2013 to 2014 , IDW published a five @-@ part series of comic books telling the story of the Into Darkness incarnation of Khan . The first issue in the series acknowledges the discrepancy of Khan 's physical appearance compared to that of the previous incarnation . In keeping with the prime timeline 's backstory , Khan 's beginnings , rise to power , and involvement in the Eugenics War are depicted . It is also revealed his birth name was Noonien Singh and that he adopted the title " Khan " out of admiration for Genghis Khan . The series goes on to mention that Khan 's anatomy and memories were altered per Marcus 's orders , so that Khan would initially believe himself to be the fabricated Harrison . 
