Research on the South China rainstorms in the first rainy season is not only a hot spot but also a difficulty in atmospheric science field. The South China shear line is an important weather system in South China, which is closely related to rainstorms in the South China first rainy season. In order to improve the forecasting ability of rainstorm in South China, deepen the understanding of the South China shear line, this paper systematically reviews the related researches on the South China shear line, including the definition, structure, formation and developing mechanisms, influence and interaction with other weather systems of the South China shear line. Meanwhile, by combining the reviews with the actual forecasting operation, we also propose some scientific issues worthy of further research. 