Abstract: A cathodic electrodeposition paint composition for one or two coats finish comprises (a) an amine-modified polyphenol epoxy resin, (b) an acrylic copolymer having ionizable groups, and (c) resin particles having a particle size of less than 1.0 .mu.m comprised of a core of gelled hydrophobic resin and a shell layer of amino group-containing hydrophilic resin. Components (a), (b) and (c) as well as blocked polyisocyanate crosslinker are dispersed in an aqueous medium containing a neutralizing agent. The paint composition is effective for diminishing the occurrence of stripe-like recessed patterns in the finished steel substrate.