The outbreak of novel coronavirus pneumonia in 2019 (Coronavirus disease 2019 [COVID-19]) is now threatening global public health. Although COVID-19 is principally defined by its respiratory symptoms, it is now clear that the virus can also affect the digestive system. In this review, we elaborate on the close relationship between COVID-19 and the digestive system, focusing on both the clinical findings and potential underlying mechanisms of COVID-19 gastrointestinal pathogenesis.