A storage space variable type refrigerator having a food receiving unit for receiving food thereon, the refrigerator comprising a lifting unit for automatically moving the food receiving unit up and down according to a food capacity. In the refrigerator, a storage efficiency is increased, a loss of cold air generated when the shelf is drawn out with opening a door of the refrigerator in order to store food having a large volume in the refrigerator is prevented, and a user' s convenience is enhanced.