The influence of laser shock peening (LSP) on tribological properties of magnesium alloy ZK60 was investigated adopting different laser power density. Surface wear morphology, elemental composition and content in wear debris were observed and analyzed using SEM and EDS. Meanwhile, surface roughness, profiles, microhardness, and microstructure were also characterized. It was proven that the roughness increased from 0.32 μm to 9.3 μm, microhardness improved by 39%, the number of grains augmented from 1045 to 1461, and wear rate decreased by 17.6% in maximum. Adhesive wear and oxidation wear were the main mechanisms of the original sample, and the wear mechanism of modified specimens was dominated by abrasive wear. In conclusion, LSP can improve wear resistance under the higher normal force. •The anti-oxidation wear ability of magnesium alloys ZK60 was improved by LSP process.•Wear mechanism were changed from adhesive wear to abrasive wear after LSP.•Adhesive wear resistance under higher normal force was improved by LSP process.