A method of displaying an operating state of a multi-standby terminal including a first subscriber identification module (SIM) and a second subscriber identification module (SIM) and an apparatus for providing same are provided. The method preferably includes: checking whether the first SIM and the second SIM were installed; and emitting light of a first light emitter when the first SIM is installed, and emitting light of a second light emitter when the second SIM is installed.