South Korea is an ally of the United States and one of the biggest buyers of Iranian oil in Asia and has asked Washington to "maximize Flexibility "last week after some South Korean contractors canceled energy-related contracts in Iran due to funding difficulties. The United States said on Friday it would temporarily allow eight importers to continue buying Iranian oil when it reinstates sanctions on Iran With the aim of forcing it to limit its nuclear, missile and regional activities.

 

Under US law exceptions can be granted for up to 180 days