Objective To summarize the mechanism of microRNA in the recurrence and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its possible clinical application. Methods The relevant literatures at home and abroad were reviewed to summarize the results of various scholars. Results microRNA played an important role in cell proliferation and apoptosis of HCC. microRNA of different types promoted or inhibited the recurrence and metastasis of HCC through different action targets and molecular pathways. Conclusions microRNA has a regulation role in the recurrence and metastasis of HCC, and the depth mechanisms study of microRNA in the recurrence and metastasis of HCC provides great significance to clinical therapy. The miRNA is expected to be one of the new target on the prediction and treatment of recurrence and metastasis in HCC.