A method for encoding a rate-compatible block Low Density Parity Check (LDPC) code. The method includes designing specific LDPC codes for a predetermined number of coding rates, and generating a pruning pattern by comparing information node degrees of the predetermined number of LDPC codes; matching check node degrees of the predetermined number of LDPC codes; generating a predetermined number of puncturing patterns according to the check node degree when the matched check node degree is calculated; determining whether a first condition given for the generated puncturing patterns is satisfied; and determining the generated puncturing patterns as rate-compatible puncturing patterns when the puncturing patterns satisfy the first condition.