The electrochemical properties of $LiFePO_4$ as a cathode for Li-ion batteries were improved by incorporating conductive carbon into the $LiFePO_4$. X-ray diffraction analysis and SEM observations revealed that the carbon-coated $LiFePO_4$ consisted of fine single crystalline particles, which were smaller than the bare $LiFePO_4$. The electrochemical performance of the carbon-coated $LiFePO_4$ was tested under various conditions. The carbon-coated $LiFePO_4$ showed much better performance in terms of the discharge capacity and cycling stability than the bare $LiFePO_4$. The improved electrochemical performances were found to be attributed to the reduced particle size and enhanced electrical conductivity of the $LiFePO_4$ by the carbon.