Objectives: This research aims to understand the mediating role of parentification in the association between parental drinking problems and interpersonal relationships among college students. Methods: Utilizing a cross-sectional design, data were collected both through online and offline means. The study encompassed responses from 281 university students aged 18 to 29. The mediation effect of parentification on the relationship between parental drinking problems and the interpersonal relations of students was examined using bootstrapping analysis in jamovi 2.23.21 solid version for macOS. Results: Notable correlations emerged among the primary variables. Parental drinking problems exhibited a negative correlation with students' interpersonal relations and a positive correlation with parentification. Crucially, parentification mediated the effects of both fathers' and mothers' drinking problems on two specific aspects of interpersonal relations: caring for others and managing conflicts. However, no significant differences were discerned based on parental gender. Conclusion: This study reveals the significant impact of father' and mother' drinking problems on the interpersonal relations of college-aged children through parentification. The findings underscore the profound influence of both fathers' and mothers' drinking problems on the interpersonal dynamics of college-aged children, mediated by parentification, irrespective of the gender of the parent. The implications of this study emphasize the need for intervention strategies and policies that account for familial dynamics, and social contexts, aiming to mitigate interpersonal challenges faced by college students from families grappling with alcohol-related issues.