Ketene and its derivatives, including surface acetate and acylium ion, are pivotal intermediates in zeolite catalysis, facilitating the conversion of C1 molecules into various chemicals. Understanding the formation, transformation, and function of ketene in zeolite catalysis is fundamental for comprehending and enhancing numerous chemical processes. Recent research advances have contributed significantly to a deeper molecular-level comprehension of how ketene affects the catalytic efficacy of zeolites, thereby playing a crucial role in the advancement of more efficient and selective catalytic processes. This minireview aims to provide an overview of ketene chemistry in zeolite catalysis, delineate the reaction network involving ketene, elucidate the role of ketene in zeolite-catalyzed reactions, and summarize the methods for characterizing ketene in zeolite environments.