A method and apparatus for storing and searching for handwritten memo data in a database in which the handwritten memo data are stored in the form of bit streams representing continuous and discontinuous elements constituting the handwritten memo data are provided. The memo data search method includes receiving an input of memo data, storing the memo data in the form of a bit stream, searching, when a search for the memo data is requested, a memo index database for the memo data, and displaying a search result. The handwritten memo data management method and apparatus stores and searches for the memo data regardless of orientation and size.