This paper describes the weldability of carbon steel and stainless steel using 5㎾ $CO_2$ laser system with nearly multi-mode beam and a parabolic focusing mirror. In the laser welding of steels, major welding parameters are focal point, travel speed, beam power, shield gas and gap tolerance, etc.. Two kinds of gases(Ar, He) were used as a assist gas and supplied through the external nozzle. It is very important for optimum condition to remove plasma plume which absorbs laser beam and to obtain deep penetration and sound weld bead. Bead-on-plate welding tests were carried out for the experiments. Penetration data were obtained with various welding parameters and the effects of welding parameters were discussed. Butt welding tests were performed with various conditions. Only the optimum laser parameters assured good weld quality As a result of this study, We achieve the fundamental weldabilities using a high power $CO_2$ laser for carbon steel and stainless steel.