Genghis Khan officially had 9 children with his primary wife Börte-four sons and five daughters who were recognized and influential in his empire

. However, historical and genetic evidence suggests he fathered many more children, possibly several hundred to over a thousand, through his six wives and numerous concubines, including possibly up to 500 concubines

. A 2003 genetic study found that about 0.5% of the world's male population, roughly 16 million men today, carry a Y-chromosome lineage traced back to Genghis Khan, indicating an extraordinarily large number of descendants

. While only four sons by Börte were formally acknowledged, the true total number of his children remains unknown and likely much higher due to the Mongol custom of recognizing only certain heirs and the extensive spread of his lineage through conquest and marriage alliances

. In summary:

• Officially recognized children: 9 (4 sons, 5 daughters by Börte)

• Estimated total children (including concubines): several hundred to possibly over 1,000

• Genetic legacy: about 1 in 200 men worldwide are descendants, implying millions of offspring

Thus, Genghis Khan had a relatively small number of officially recognized children but likely fathered hundreds or more in total, leaving a vast genetic legacy.