The first place in our history where democracy was realized

Seonhwadang Hall within the restored Jeollagamyong Office
This place is called Seonhwadang, where the Daedoso was established during the Donghak Peasant Revolution to monitor whether the terms of the Jeonju Truce were being properly met and the peasants' demands were being fulfilled. The information board right there states, "The first place in our country where democracy was realized."
I wondered if it is appropriate to say that democracy was actually "realized," rather than just saying it "sprouted" or "began to stir." It seems to be an extension of the arguments heard quite frequently over the last few years suggesting that Donghak should be included in the Constitution.