Abstract: To extricate themselves from diplomatic predicaments，both China and the United States needed a rapprochement in their relationship. At the same time，it offered a historical opportunity for the peaceful resolution of the Korean issue. In its diplomatic negotiations with the United States，the Chinese government paid special attention to the interests and demands of North Korea and promised to assist Pyongyang in achieving peaceful unification. With China’s diplomatic maneuvers with the United States and efforts at the UN，the United Nations Commission for the Unification and Rehabilitation of Korea was disbanded in November 1973. In this process，North Korea adopted more radical and uncompromising measures，which were in sharp contrast to the Chinese tactics. Primarily due to the escalated tension between South and North Koreas，the issue of U.S. withdrawal from South Korea was not resolved. Taking advantages of the Sino-American rapprochement，the international standing and security environment of North Korea was greatly enhanced. During this period of time，China and North Korea was able to maintain friendly relations，and the relationship was further improved. In sum，China made an effort to help North Korea，while North Korea depended too much on China.

Key words: Sino-American relations, Sino-North Korean relations, the Korean issue at the UN