As China's society enters a new stage of ecological civilization, forestry is entrasted with increasing demands to align with sustainability goals. Life-cycle forest management has become a fundamental requirement for forestry workers to practice the concept of ecological civilization. Grounded in forest development and succession theory and guided by human demands for ecosystem functionality, this management framework emphasizes the comprehensive planning and stewardship from stand establishment to forest maturity. Its design and objectives directly affect the ecological, economic, and social outcomes of forestry development. Based on literature analysis, theoretical model comparison, and interdisciplinary integration, this study systematically reviews the theoretical foundations, influencing factors, classification indicators, implementation pathways, and practical value of life-cycle management models under varying natural conditions and management objectives. Based on the developmental trajectories of forest ecosystems., five distinct life-cycle management models are proposed, each with clear theoretical bases, core concepts, stage-division methods, and application conditions. A key technical feature lies in integrating management objectives, methods, indicators, and treatments into a coherent “complete forest management process”, forming a systematic framework for modern forestry development. Building on this foundation, the study further proposes a design architecture and optimization strategy for multifunctional forest ecosystem management that respond to climate change adaptation and natural conservation policy constraints. These results provide theoretical guidance and technical pathways for advancing forestry practices toward harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.