The work aims to solve the problems of low bonding strength and high viscosity of the soybean protein adhesive and make the adhesive meet the requirements of artificial board and glued products used indoors. The research progress of modified soy protein adhesive in bonding strength and viscosity was reviewed to analyze the prospect of atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) modified soy protein adhesives. The grafting modification of soybean protein by ATRP can improve the bonding strength and control the proper viscosity. ATRP modified soy protein provides a new exploration road for the research of modified soy protein adhesive, and has important guiding significance for the preparation of soybean protein adhesive with moderate viscosity, high bonding strength and good weather resistance.