Provided are a method and apparatus for transforming an image, in which an input image is transformed into a frequency domain by selectively using a plurality of frequency transform algorithms according to a frequency characteristic of the input image. The method includes: selecting a frequency transform algorithm to be used for a current block from a plurality of frequency transform algorithms according to a result obtained by transforming frequencies of peripheral blocks adjacent to the current block; and transforming the current block into a frequency domain by using the selected frequency transform algorithm.