However , the level of control exerted in these spheres varied and was not absolute .
Western Europe , Oceania , Japan , and South Korea , among other places , were often said to lie under the sphere of influence of the United States .
The level of control exerted in these spheres varied and was not absolute .
Western Europe , Oceania , Japan , and South Korea , among other places , were often said to lie under the sphere of influence of the United States .