Nonvolatile memory device and method for storing status information using multiple strings

A nonvolatile memory device for storing status information using multiple strings, the nonvolatile memory device comprising:

• a nonvolatile storage unit comprising a cell capable of storing at least one bit of data, a plurality of strings, each string having at least two cells connected in series, and a plurality of pages each of which includes a plurality of cells;
• and
• a memory control unit selecting a cell to store the data in the nonvolatile storage unit,
• wherein the memory control unit controls such that the plurality of strings comprise a main string group comprised of strings storing data and a spare string group including at least two spare strings that store status information on the data stored in the main string group.

A method of storing status information using multiple strings, the method comprising:

• receiving data and address information for storing the data;
• storing the data in a cell corresponding to the address information within a main string group;
• selecting a cell from a spare string group to store status information on a page including the cell storing the data;
• and
• storing the status information on the page in the selected cell,
• wherein the spare string group comprises at least two strings each of which comprises a cell storing status information on data stored in the main string group.