Abstract <p>Steel slag, a byproduct of the steel smelting process, has garnered significant attention regarding its treatment and utilization technologies. This article utilizes the IncoPat global patent database to systematically review and analyze the current development status and global competition trends in steel slag treatment and utilization technologies. The analysis is conducted from various perspectives, including patent application, publication, and authorization status, application fields, technical efficacy, patent value, major regions, and the distribution of applicant institutions. Additionally, it discusses application cases of technologies in this domain, revealing future market development directions. Results from the patent analysis indicate a continuous increase in research on steel slag treatment and utilization technologies, primarily focusing on sectors such as building materials, metal smelting and processing, metal casting, water treatment and waste management, and road and infrastructure construction. The technical efficacy of these technologies reflects the characteristics of a green transition. Notably, there is a degree of similarity in patent distribution across regions and applicant institutions. While this field shows promising development prospects and market potential, it also faces numerous challenges and difficulties. Finally, several suggestions for technological innovation in this area are proposed. This article aims to provide valuable references for researchers, corporate R&amp;D departments, and government policymakers, thereby promoting the continuous development, dissemination, and commercialization of steel slag treatment and utilization technologies.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>