Abstract: The working principle of laser shot peening was introduced. The change of microstructure, the forming mechanism and distribution of compressive residual stress in the surface modification layer were described. The effect and mechanism of laser shot peening on resistance of stress corrosion cracking were analyzed in detail. On the base of comparing with shot peening, the superiorities of laser shot peening in improving metal resistance of stress corrosion cracking were summarized. Finally its potential application was also presented.