The ongoing development of modern equipment in China has led to a growing demand for efficient and high-quality welding technologies, particularly for large and complex machinery. Narrow-gap oscillating laser welding technology emerges as a significant future direction in welding, capable of fulfilling these requirements. This paper reviews recent research progress in narrow-gap oscillating laser welding and narrow-gap oscillating laser-arc hybrid welding both domestically and internationally. It also provides perspectives and recommendations for the advancement of narrow-gap oscillating laser welding technology.