As the outermost structure of the plant shoot, pubescence is crucial for plant resistance to herbivores. However, the underlying mechanism regulating pubescence density and insect resistance in soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] remains largely unclear. Here, we identified the pubescence density-related gene Glycine soja KNOTTED1-like homeobox 1 (GsKNOX1), a member of the KNOX transcription factor family, in wild soybean [Glycine soja Sieb. & Zucc.] through a genome-wide association study. Overexp