CO_2 capture is a key technology for controlling greenhouse gas emissions. Electrochemical CO_2 reduction offers an effective method to close the artificial carbon cycle. However, both processes are energy-intensive and have traditionally been treated as separate technical and scientific fields. Recent advancements propose integrating upstream carbon capture with downstream electrochemical reduction processes. This integration can be achieved through direct electrolysis of capture media such as anamine-rich solution and bicarbonate. This integration approach offers several benefits, including avoiding the energy-intensive regeneration of the capture medium and the release of CO_2, eliminating the need for CO_2 transportation and storage, reducing the overall operating costs, and enhancing the energy efficiency and economic benefits of the entire carbon cycle. Consequently, this integrated system presents a promising solution for economically and efficiently capturing CO_2 while saving energy. This paper aims to summarize the recent advances in electrochemical reactivity CO_2 capture (ERCC), discuss the achievements in electrode and electrolyte development, examine the limiting factors that impact the efficiency of integrated electrolysis, and analyze the potential mechanisms and reaction pathways influenced by various factors. Additionally, the paper highlights the main challenges and opportunities in the field of direct electrochemical reduction of capture media and provides a prospective outlook on the future development of coupled carbon capture and electrochemical utilization processes.