A method and apparatus for generating vibration based on sound characteristics in a mobile terminal are provided. The method includes converting audio data into an audio signal upon generation of a sound play request; determining whether to generate vibration based on a sound volume of the audio signal; setting an actuator to be driven for the audio signal among at least two actuators based on frequency distribution characteristics of the audio signal if it is determined upon determining to generate the vibration; and driving the actuator being set for the audio signal when outputting the audio signal.