Embodiments of method and apparatus for controlling a data read speed of an optical disc can reproduce data with greater accuracy. An embodiment of a method for controlling data read speed can determine whether the optical disc is finalized or in an open state, and a playback speed can be controlled by the determined result. If the optical disc is in an open state, a data-recorded section can be divided into at least two areas, and different speeds are applied to individual areas. If the optical disc is finalized, a relatively high speed or maximum speed is applied to all areas of the optical disc. Therefore, data of an unfinalized open-state disc can be reproduced at high speed. Further, increased resistance to surface vibration, eccentricity, or defects of the optical disc can be achieved.