Electromagnetic pulse (EMP) de-icing technology refers to the form of pulsed current or pulsed magnetic field, which converts EMP energy into pulsed force, changes the shape of metal materials, destroys the adhesion between the ice layer and the surface of the material, and never achieves the purpose of ice layer falling off. This paper, elaborates on the working principle of EMP de-icing technology from three aspects: the research background of electromagnetic pulse technology, influencing factors of de-icing excitation, and industry applications. It reviews the progress of relevant fundamental theoretical research both domestically and internationally. Furthermore, it analyzes the factors affecting de-icing effectiveness from four perspectives: structural response, pulse current size, metal material thickness, and coil-to-metal material spacing. From the two dimensions of application and fundamental theory, the existing problems of EMP de-icing technology are identified respectively. The research direction of EMP de-icing technology is expected from three aspects: intelligent control system, optimization of metal materials and numerical calculation.