This study aims to refine the existing shear strength model for reinforced concrete(RC) beam–column connections by explicitly incorporating the bi-directional loading effect, which more accurately reflects the actual loading conditions of RC structures during earthquakes. A new database consisting of 21 RC beam–column connection specimens tested under simultaneous bi-directional loading was collected and analyzed to investigate the influence of key parameters on joint shear strength. The results revealed that the joint configuration and the presence of a slab are the primary factors governing the extent of bi-directional loading effect on joint shear strength. Based on these findings, a set of simple and practical modification factors was proposed to refine the existing joint shear strength model to account for bi-directional loading effect. The outcomes of this study provide a rational basis for incorporating bi-directional loading effect into the shear strength evaluation of RC beam–column connections