Park spoke on his return from a medical in Britain after signing this week to join the Premier League club from PSV Eindhoven on a four-year contract.

"Personally I'm very proud of myself. I feel sorry and very grateful to coach Hiddink, but I think I can return his favour by becoming a better player in Manchester," the 24-year-old told a news conference at Inchon airport.

Park and South Korea team mate Lee Young-pyo were signed by PSV coach Guus Hiddink after the Dutchman worked with the pair at the 2002 World Cup.

Park, who helped PSV win the Dutch title and reach the Champions League semifinals last season, will become the first South Korean to play in the Premier League.

"When I wore the Manchester kit, I didn't feel it was real. But when I went to United's ground, I felt very proud that I will be playing for such a top club," he said of his visit to Old Trafford.

Park said, however, that joining United did not match the heights of South Korea's success in the 2002 World Cup.

"The joy that I felt during last World Cup finals could not be matched by anything else."

Park played a key role in co-hosts South Korea's run to the semi-finals, scoring one of the goals of the tournament to knock out Portugal.

United were anxious to secure the player's signature before next month's pre-season tour to the Far East.