In each of sub-fields on each of lines in a plasma display device, it is judged whether or not all of a plurality of discharge cells on the line or the display cells whose number is not less than a predetermined number do not emit light, and at least one of a voltage applied to a scan electrode and a voltage applied to a sustain electrode on the line are kept at predetermined levels when all of the discharge cells or the discharge cells whose number is not less than the predetermined number do not emit light, or a pulse having the same phase as that of a sustain pulse applied to the sustain electrode 13 is periodically applied in place of a sustain pulse applied to the scan electrode 12 corresponding to the line, to decrease a charge or discharge current as well as to reduce the generation of electromagnetic waves.