Bi-Han as the original Sub-Zero was introduced in the first "Mortal Kombat" game (1992), in which he participates in the eponymous tournament as he was ordered by the Lin Kuei to kill the host Shang Tsung and take his treasure. Prior to Mortal Kombat, Bi-Han was commissioned by the sorcerer Quan Chi to obtain an amulet. Quan Chi used this to manipulate both Bi-Han and Hanzo Hasashi of the rival Shirai Ryu clan in order to take possession of both of their souls for his undead armies. Early on in the quest, Bi-Han kills Hasashi, allowing Quan Chi to further manipulate the latter into becoming his undead slave Scorpion. After Bi-Han delivers the amulet to Quan Chi, he is sent back to the Netherrealm by the thunder god Raiden upon learning it is the key to releasing the fallen elder god, Shinnok. Sub-Zero regains the amulet while fighting Shinnok and returns it to Raiden. After Liu Kang defeats Shang Tsung in Mortal Kombat, Bi-Han fails to accomplish his mission, and is killed by Scorpion, who sought to avenge his own death. Succeeding in his plans, Quan Chi enlists Bi-Han's soul into the undead Noob Saibot.