［Objective/Significance］ Waterborne polyurethane（WPU） is an important matrix resin for environmentally friendly coatings；however，the hydrophilic groups in its molecular chains leadto poor water resistance and weak barrier properties，which severely limit its application in anti-corrosion coatings.［Analysis/Discussion/Progress］Focusing on the enhancement of WPU coatings anti-corrosion performance，this paper systematically reviews the research progress in high-performance WPU coatings-shifting from passive to active protection. The paper focuses on the mechanisms by which strategies such as crosslinked network construction，organic-inorganic hybridization，two-dimensional nanofiller incorporation，superhydrophobic interface construction，and multicomponent synergistic modification enhance the densification and barrier properties of coatings. It also summarizes active protection methods，including self-healing of damage，smart corrosion inhibition with controlled release，and visual corrosion early warning.［Conclusion/Prospect］ Finally，future development directions in this field are envisioned from the aspects of functional monomer moleculardesign，precise regulation of WPU structure，and systematic optimization of coating formulation and preparation processes.