Does the mysql CLI tool provide a way to display binary data in a console-friendly manner?

Question

I have a MySQL database containing a table with a binary-typed column. I'd like to be able to project that column without having to run it through, e.g., HEX(). Does the mysql CLI tool have a configuration option or other means to display a representation of binary data in a manner that won't output arbitrary bytes for my console to interpret in hilarious/annoying ways?

Answer 1

Start MySQL CLI with param --binary-as-hex

Example:

mysql --binary-as-hex

Answer 2

Set mysql client options in /etc/my.cnf works for me:

[client]
binary-as-hex = true

[mysql]
binary-as-hex = true