Liu Jindong started his professional football career in 2001 for Shandong Luneng after he graduated from their youth team.

[2] Due to his versatility he has been able to establish himself as a regular member of the team since and has helped Shandong win the 2006[3] and 2008[4] league titles.

Liu Jindong received his international debut against Chile in a 0–0 friendly match draw on August 20, 2003, where he played in midfield.

[5] Under Chinese manager Arie Haan, Liu Jindong was able to gain regular playing time for the national team and would even score his first international goal on December 11, 2003, in an East Asian Cup game vs Hong Kong.

Liu Jindong would have to wait five years until Gao Hongbo came in before he made his return in a friendly match against Germany in a 1–1 draw on May 29, 2009.