A live detection method and apparatus for a high-voltage switch cabinet. The live detection apparatus for a high-voltage switch cabinet comprises a robot body (11) and a background server. The robot body (11) comprises a host module (2), a power module (3), a detection module (4) and a motion module (5). The power module (3) is electrically connected to the host module (2) and the motion module (5). The host module (2) is in signal connection with the motion module (5) and the detection module (4). The detection module (4) comprises a visible light camera (41), an infrared thermal imager (42), a non-contact ultrasonic sensor (43) and an ultra-high frequency sensor (44). The motion module (5) comprises a horizontal motion module (51), a vertical motion module (52) and a rotational motion module (53). The horizontal motion module (51) is composed of a motor-driven carrier (62) and a laser navigation system (61); the vertical motion module (52) is fixed on the motor-driven carrier (62); the rotational motion module (53) is fixed on the vertical motion module (52); and the detection module (4) is fixed on the rotational motion module (53).