Given its status as a strategic metallic mineral resource, breakthroughs in metallogenic theory and exploration technology for manganese ore are of great significance for ensuring resource security. The Xialei manganese deposit, a major manganese resource base in China, serves as an ideal case study for evaluating the integrated application of manganese metallogenic theory and effective exploration methodologies. Using the Xialei manganese deposit as a framework, this paper systematically reviews the research progress in manganese metallogenic theory in China, focusing on elucidating the core concepts and scientific foundations of the latest theories. It is proposed that the “endogenous origin and exogenous mineralization” theory offers a robust genetic explanation for super- large manganese deposits. Simultaneously, the paper summarizes the current development status of main technical methods for manganese exploration and evaluation, analyzing their application effectiveness and the suitability of various methods in manganese prospecting. Research indicates that the guidance provided by geological methods combined with manganese metallogenic theory remains key to achieving breakthroughs in manganese prospecting. The findings of this paper can provide references for the study of metallogenic theory and exploration practices in similar manganese deposits.