To elucidate the recent advancements in the domain of shield tunneling in China, an analysis of the core journals from 2008 to 2024, as included in CNKI, was conducted using social network methods. This analysis of the evolution of the research cooperation network structure in the field of shield tunneling is conducted from a chronological standpoint. The changes in the core innovation organization are analyzed with respect to the stages that are divided by major events, which function as milestones. A statistical analysis of research hotspots is carried out based on keyword clusters. Prospective future trends are identified through the analysis of keyword emergence. The results of the study indicate the following: (1) With respect to the research cooperation network structure, the network scale is undergoing constant expansion, evolving into a sparse small-world structure dependent on key hubs. (2) With respect to core organizations, the scale of academic organizations, such as Tongji University and Southwest Jiaotong University, as well as engineering organizations, which include China Railway Tunnel Group Co., Ltd. and Shanghai Tunnel Engineering Co., Ltd., that are situated at the key hubs, is undergoing constant expansion. The number and proportion of enterprises in the core group are also increasing. The dual-circulation innovation organization model is gradually taking shape, and knowledge innovation in the field of shield tunneling is beginning to shift from basic theoretical research to its application in practice. (3) The visualization of clustering results indicates that the current shield tunneling field, based on intelligent equipment and construction control, focuses on core issues such as intelligent collaboration, adaptability in complex and extreme environments, high-performance materials, and green safety. (4) The emergence of keywords serves to underscore the ongoing significance of directions such as refined construction control in complex environments, enhanced green safety, and intelligent decision-making in shield tunneling.