Abstract: ［Objective］ To systematically identify the safety requirements of urban rail transit virtual coupling systems, and provide technical references for system safety assurance and the third-party assessment, it is necessary to conduct research on safety assurance methods for virtual coupling systems. ［Method］ In accordance with relevant rail transit safety standards and considering the technical characteristics of virtual coupling system, a comprehensive safety assurance method covering all life cycle stages of the virtual coupling system is proposed. Hazard analysis and safety requirement identification are carried out on multiple levels, including the virtual coupling system level and the signaling/vehicle system level, classify and verify the identified safe requirements according to newly added functional safety requirements, technical safety requirements, and operation/maintenance safety requirements. Using the demonstration project on Beijing Subway Line 11 as a case study, the safety assurance method for virtual coupling system engineering is verified. ［Result & Conclusion］ The application of the engineering safety assurance method for the virtual coupling system in the Beijing Subway Line 11 demonstration project enables the analysis and identification of fundamental hazards based on signaling/vehicle system newly added functions. Corresponding control measures are developed through hierarchical hazard analysis, effectively controlling the risks associated with the new technology to the lowest reasonably achievable level.