Laser shock processing is a new type of surface modification technology that can improve the fatigue life of materials by using laser-induced plasma shock waves. It has the advantages of significant strengthening effect, strong controllability and good adaptability. Laser shock processing plays an important role in improving the structural reliability, the fatigue strength of parts and the service life of materials. In recent years, the technology has received widespread attention and developed rapidly. This paper briefly introduces the basic principle, characteristics and application fields of laser shock processing, and summarizes the development and research results of laser shock processing. In view of the current situation of laser shock processing at home and abroad, some problems of the technology that need to be solved now are put forward. Finally, the application prospect of laser shock processing is forecasted.