A method of preparing a superabsorbent polymer having a rapid absorption rate and an improved water retention capacity by additional heat treatment while using a thermally degradable internal crosslinking agent and an encapsulated foaming agent at the same time during polymerization.
A superabsorbent polymer prepared by this method is also provided, the superabsorbent polymer having a centrifuge retention capacity (CRC) of 40 g/g to 55 g/g, as measured according to EDANA method WSP 241.3, and an absorption rate of 48 sec or less, as measured by a vortex method.