Compared with neutron irradiation, proton irradiation experiment has the advantages of low cost, short period, precise control of irradiation parameters and no radioactivity of irradiated samples, which is convenient for facilitating subsequent performance testing and microstructures charactering.Therefore,effects of irradiation damage on the reactor pressure vessel steel have been studied widely by using the method of proton irradiation. In this paper,the research status of proton irradiation experiment was introduced, the advantages and disadvantages between proton irradiation and neutron irradiation were compared, how proton irradiation affects the microstructure development and mechanical, electromagnetic properties of RPV steels were analyzed, the proton irradiation damage mechanism was discussed, and the current research achievements and shortcomings were also commented. Carrying out comprehensive and systematic research on the proton irradiation experiment is of great necessity and importance.